Lewis Edward Oats Jr.

We mourn the loss and celebrate the life of Lewis Edward Oats, Jr., a beloved son of Clyde, NC, who passed away at his home on July 29, 2025, at the age of 68.
Born on February 2, 1957, in Haywood County to the late Lewis Oats, Sr. and Virginia Moore Oats, Lewis was raised in Canton, where the Blue Ridge Mountains became both his home and his heart. An explorer by nature and a guardian of the hills, Lewis knew every ridge, trail, and stream by heart. He was truly an avid angler, and whether it was a stream or the ocean, many tournament trophies were captured. Lewis' adventurous spirit was matched only by his deep sense of heritage and family.
A proud graduate of Pisgah High School, Class of 1976, Lewis was known for his speed on the football field and the lifelong friendships her forged. Loyalty and camaraderie were his trademarks, which he carried through every chapter of his life.
Lewis honorably served in the United States Army, a decision that reflected his deep patriotism and commitment to service. Even after his military career, Lewis continued to give selflessly – driving fellow veterans to appointments, checking in on friends, and advocating for those who served.
His faith was a guiding light. A dedicated member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, Lewis worshiped faithfully and sang proudly in the men's choir. He lived his faith in every action – quietly, humbly, and with conviction.
Known around the community as "The Cookout Man," Lewis had a gift for bringing people together, whether grilling burgers, frying fish, or simply making people laugh, he ensured that no one went hungry and everyone felt loved. He was also known for tending the sacred grounds of Gibson Town Cemetery, honoring those who came before him with care and devotion.
Lewis was a skilled automobile paint and body man, and anyone who knew him surely saw him driving his beloved black 2016 Dodge Ram Hemi with pride. His smile was infectious, and his love for dancing lit up every room, memories that will live on in the hearts of many.
He was a wonderful son, brother, uncle, great cousin, and loyal friend, whose legacy of kindness, faith, and community service will never be forgotten.
He is preceded in death by his father, Lewis Oats, Sr.
Lewis is survived by his loving mother, Virginia Moore Oats; his sister, DeWanda O. Coleman; his niece, Janita Coleman(Lamont Brown); his great-niece, Keona Coleman; his aunt, Gail Cook; Aunts and Uncles: Thelma Gibbs(Hilliard), Carolyn Moore, and Charles Moore(Alice); special lifelong friends: Paula Gibson Jones, Lee Gaddis, and Josh Allen and a multitude of cousins, other dear friends, and extended family.
A Home Going Celebration will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Canton, NC. Reverend Jean Hall will be officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial with military honors will be at 2:00PM on Monday, August 11, 2025, in Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC.
Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service are deeply honored to be serving the Oats family.
May Lewis' memory forever be a blessing and his legacy and inspiration.