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Phil Lewis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Phil Lewis
Denise Geoghagen
June 3, 2024
Condolences to the family of Philip Lewis on behalf of his philanthropy and the beneficiaries of the Sir Phillip D Lewis Center.
Denny
August 30, 2022
His name alone brings a smile to my face and heart!
Denny Hattler
August 30, 2020
Still remembered and beloved. He was an inspiration and delight!
Paulette Lewis
September 2, 2019
Rosemary Cooneys 40th Heavenly Anniversary is the same day, September 4th..., Know we are thinking of you, as Hurricane David hit in 1979... Florida is awaiting Dorian...
Paulette Lewis
September 2, 2019
This will be your 5th Heavenly Anniversary ... Thank You and for your Excellent Examples, Gratitude
Jon Shebel
August 30, 2019
Mr. President.....You are greatly missed!!!!!!!
Denny Hattler
August 30, 2019
Today, August 30, 2019, I spent some time looking (it is often misplaced!) for something Phil gave to my husband, years ago at a FADICA meeting. It is a shillelagh (spelling?) and it was an extra that Phil had. At the meeting, when he noticed Carls knee surgery hobble, Phil returned the next day and gifted Carl with the beautiful walking stick! Now, all these years later, Carl, a Parkinsons Disease sufferer, uses the stick regularly and it brings Phil to mind regularly. He was a unique and warm individual who liked to tease me about my liberal church leanings.
Much love to his family,
Denny Hattler
Paulette Lewis
March 4, 2013
Debbie Hunt called today. Evie, Petie and Deb thinking of you...A Blessed 6 months for you, Dad.
Paulette Lewis
December 26, 2012
Suzy, Bill and Michael sent a Christmas Tree Ornament for 2012...."The ones we Love never truly leave us."...
Blessings for 2013,
Love, Paulette, Robby, Leah and Luke Cashman
Patricia and George Carol
December 25, 2012
I just learned about the passing of Senator Lewis. Living down the street from the Lewis family, I enjoyed countless pleasant experiences with them, while growing up. I will never forget the daily Rosary with the family. Also, will NEVER forget the support both the Senator and Mrs. Lewis gave our family at the passing of my brother Rudy Jr. Both Patricia and my prayers go out to Maryellen and all of the Lewis Family. The human race has lost one of it's most honorable members; Heaven has gained an additional Saint. God Bless.
Carole Healey
December 20, 2012
I just saw this, that Philip Lewis passed away. We had lost touch over the last couple of years. He was kind and funny and such a comfort to me when my father, Ed Healey passed away. I loved to see the two of them sitting in Howley's solving the problems of the world. What a gift he was to so many of us. To MaryEllen and all of his children and grandchildren, please know that we are thinking of you all and sending our love, as late as it is. He was such a good, good man.
Shawmeka Taylor
November 16, 2012
God Call You Home Because Your Work Was Done On This Earth You Was Such A Blessing Too Palm Beach County R.I.P Love Ya....
Paulette Lewis
November 6, 2012
Dad,
It has been two months since you joined The Heavenly Troops!
I can tell you are still working hard in Heaven...
America is Voting today!
Love, Paulette
Lisa Walker Donaldson McCall
October 2, 2012
A truely great man, whom I have admired for years. I was blessed to have met him and his family, and to have shared a few great memories with them. My thoughts and prayers and love go out to his family. He will be missed.
RandyR Romano
September 20, 2012
A true gentleman and a class act.
Cecilia Cleary-Perry
September 14, 2012
The Lewis family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember your father from our days of St. Julianna and Cardinal Newman. He always had a warm smile and open arms for all. He will be truly missed.
Robin
September 14, 2012
Mr Lewis thank u for giving me the opportunity of working for u. U r a great man i will miss u deeply its hard being here n office without seeing u but i do have wonderful memories thank u. :) u will b missed
Seamus Browne
September 12, 2012
My deepest sympathy is with the Lewis family. I was at St. Juliana's from July '68 to July '70 and Mr.Phil Lewis was the most affirming person with me when I most needed support and encouragement in my home away from home. May God bless the Lewis family always.
Ever grateful, Seamus Browne
Barbara Vassalotti
September 11, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. God bless you all. Barbara & Joseph Vassalotti
Phyllis Lucas
September 11, 2012
Mrs. Lewis and family, my prayers are with you. I loved Mr. Lewis. He will always be in my heart. Such a sweet, wonderful man. I am honored to have known him.
All my love,
Phyllis Thompson Lucas
September 11, 2012
Paulette & family: our warm hugs, prayers & thoughts are with you all. Please know how much we love Paulette & her family. May wonderful memories assist you at this time of loss.
Love, Nathan, Andrew & Barbara Donovan
Manuel & Lisa Pinto
September 10, 2012
Dear Juliana, Mrs. Lewis, and family,
Our deepest condolences to you. Your dad was a giant of a person, and such a comforting presence at daily Mass. We loved to watch him move through that stack of prayer cards, leaving no one's need uncovered; with his indexed Magnificat and his flashlight. And we loved to hear him reminisce! He was so good to everyone, and good to us! We will treasure those IHOP dinners with the two of you and hearing his amazing stories. We imagine you will feel such a great loss so tremendously and pray that Jesus comfort you especially at this time. We know he is smiling down on you all!
All our love, Manuel & Lisa Pinto
Evan Ortiz
September 10, 2012
My deepest sympaty. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Fondly,
Evan & Laurie Ortiz
Patrick Licata
September 10, 2012
Neil and entire Lewis Family,
Thoughts and prayers go out to you!
Wanda Hagan
September 10, 2012
I remember when Phil showed at my families home in Schenectady NY.on August 1, 1958. He came to be at our wedding and left as soon as it was over because MaryEllen was VERY pregnant!
He was God's finest!Heaven is celebrating today.
September 10, 2012
To the entire Lewis family, you have my deepest sympathy for your loss. You are in my prayers. April Segui
Leslie Guerrero
September 10, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Lewis family during your time of loss. God Bless.
Joe & Leslie Guerrero & family
Kathleen Moore
September 10, 2012
Uncle Phil was my Godfather. I have watched his continued commitment to the plight of the homeless here in Palm Beach County. He always occupied a place in my heart because of his relationship with my mom and dad. (Jack and Peggy Moore)Thoughts and prayers are to the family. God bless you all.
September 10, 2012
To the Lewis family, you will be in my prayers.
Karen Marchetto
September 9, 2012
Our condolences to the Lewis family. The Senator was a great friend of my parents- and a favorite fishing buddy of my dad's. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. The Marchetto family
September 9, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. What a guy! Honorable, Kind, Gentle, Faithful and will be forever missed. What a great team he and Ed Healey were representing our great State. They will meet again in heaven and be looking down upon all of us. They will never be forgotten. Patty Pearce Bedard
The "E. Donaldson"/Smith Family
September 9, 2012
To the Lewis Family, we pray your strength especially at this time. You have always been there for us, and we are here for you. Matt. 5:4, "Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted".
Bill Kearns
September 8, 2012
Phil Lewis was a friend and inspiration to three generations of our family. We will truly miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Bill Kearns and Family
Lester Queller
September 8, 2012
Our sympathy and prayers are with you.
cathy lewis
September 8, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 8, 2012
I wish to offer my sincere sympathy to Phil's family. He was a wonderful person and a good friend. He will be missed. Bill James
September 8, 2012
We were deeply saddened to learn of Phil's passing. He was a gentleman of character and charm and a leader in all facets of life. Please accept our deepest sympathy. I plan to drive down to the services and hope to have the opportunity to express my condolences in person.
Phil will be deeply missed by so many.
Denny and Carl Hattler
Tom Powers
September 8, 2012
I will never forget being "taken in" as part of the family on my return from Vietnam. The Sunday dinners with 19 plates or more for friends and family. And later flying Phil around to various meetings as he ran for District 27. It was a great feeling to always feel like part of the Lewis family. My sincere condolences to all of the Lewis family.
Paula Tighe
September 8, 2012
To the Lewis family-Mr. Lewis was a true leader not just in the Senate, but in West Palm Beach. He made an unforgettable mark on our town. He will be greatly missed. We are so sorry for your loss.
Kim Theel-Thompson
September 8, 2012
Patty,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Jon Shebel
September 7, 2012
Thanks so much to Maryellen and the entire Lewis family for sharing THE PRESIDENT with us all...he was our mentor, leader, friend, confidant and everything else "good in life" and he always set the example for all of us to follow. He always made time for all who needed him and many of us did on a continuing basis. He never judged us, but was always there for us all. To the Marines "guarding the gates"... a "real leader" is approaching you....make sure you come to attention and salute as he passes through. Thank you for everything, MR.PRESIDENT!!!!!!!
Bill and Michelle Klein
September 7, 2012
Neil and family,
My wife and I are so sorry to hear about your loss. You all are in our thoughts and our prayers
Ruby Rinker
September 7, 2012
What a beautiful,kind and helpful soul was that of Senator Phil Lewis.He was my friend and always had wise counsel.He loved his family, his state and his country. May God,that he loved,grant comfort and peace to his family. Sincerely Ruby Rinker
September 7, 2012
Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
God bless you all through your har times. One thing that I remember is how I used to ride your horse CHA CHA and my our horse COCO.
From Wanda J. (Root) Roy (Lake Park)
Brothers:Charley A Root Jr.(Orlando)
James E. Root (Orlando)
Vernon L. Root (Hobe Sound)
Riviera Beach:
Mother: Marian E. Root (deceased 1997)
Father: Charley A Root Sr.(deceased 2000)
September 7, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lewis Family. Phil was a guiding presence in our lives. We will miss him.
Dennis Maale Family
Betsy Cook
September 7, 2012
What a great man,I will truly miss him. My love and prayers are with each and everyone of you. So many memories of friendships between our families, parents and children. Mr. Lewis was all that was good in life and showed it each and every day. Paulette I have moved to NC so will not be there for the services but please know I am praying for all of you and will be there in spirit. Just remember he is a candle burning brightly in everyone he touched.
God Bless all of you
Reginald Corlew
September 7, 2012
Sorry for your loss. We have you and your loved ones in our prayers always.
Carroll Webb
September 7, 2012
Senator Lewis was a humble, good and Godly man who lived his faith unashamedly each day. As the Bible tells us, we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, do unto others as they would do unto us, and that to whom much is given, much is required. Phil Lewis was the poster boy for living and adhering to these principles. He was a family man,friend, mentor, public servant and Statesman who dedicated his life to benefitting others. In our journey through life we meet thousands of fine people, but very few attain the signature status as he did. We so enjoyed his humor and stories through the years, and more particularly the tales about Mary Ellen and the escapades of the children. The essence of his life was love for his family and others. We are blessed that we could call him our friend, and our prayers and love are with the family for the loss of this wonderful man.
Helen and Carroll
Rusty McCall Family
September 6, 2012
Thoughts and prayers to the Lewis family, the many relitives, and very many friends. This is a loss to all Floridians
David O'Byrne
September 6, 2012
My prayers are with you Mary Ellen and your children. I knew Phil and you well at St. Julian's Church. I served there in the 60's with Msgr. McGrenehan. Phil was a gentleman, a man of God, and a good model for us all. Peace be with you, David
John Remsen
September 6, 2012
On behalf of The Remsen Family, we extend our deepest and warmest condolences to the entire Lewis family. We will miss our dear friend, Phil Lewis. My parents, especially, loved him. He presented a eulogy at my mom's funeral and came to my dad's funeral just 18 months ago. He was a great man and an inspiration to many. Our thoughts and paryers are with you.
Deanne Wiggins
September 6, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Lewis Family. Senator Lewis was God's gift to the Great State of Florida. He was a good Christian man with a true servant heart. His generosity has touched the lives of so many...what a philanthropist. He will be greatly missed but his legacy will live on...God Bless the Lewis Family.
Frank Navarro
September 6, 2012
I first met Mr. Lewis as a 12 year old little leaguer at Phipps Park. I was so impressed! My respect and admiration for him has only grown in the 40 or so years hence. My thoughts are with the Lewis family, especially Patty and Suzi.
Ray & Sunny McCall
September 6, 2012
To the entire Lewis family. Our prayers are with you during this sad time. Phil Lewis was a very kind man, always friendly. Our children brought us together during the years at Cardinal Newman High School. Sadly, the memorial services also brought us together with remembrance of our lost children who had gone before us. May God give you the strength to endure this loss.
Elizabeth Thiemann
September 6, 2012
Greetings. We now have a new treasure in Heaven. What a guy!! Phil's presence and legacy will long be felt in this life.
His love for God, his country, and most importantly his family were so evident. I'm blessed to have been a neighbor and friend. I can just imagine Phil dancing, singing and strategizing with Jesus and God the Father up in heaven.
Love and Prayers,
Elizabeth Thiemnnn
Elaine Liftin
September 6, 2012
Senator Lewis was a unique humanitarian. He cared about people and especially about children. I had the pleasure of working with him at the state level with Blue Print 2000:The Florida Commission on Education Reform and Accountability. He continued mentoring me and helped me strategize the statewide Council for Educational Change. The depth of his knowledge and committment to ensure the well being of the next generation is one of his greatest legacies. He will be in my heart. God Bless. . .Dr. Elaine Liftin
Joe Cavanagh
September 6, 2012
I will miss my friend. A pal that I grew up with in the thirties ,alter boys together at St. Edwards in Palm Beach neighbors in Chicago and class mates. A dear friend. I'll miss our lunches of these last years and all the talk guys like us do. Mary Ellen and his family have lost a hero God has called one home. My prayers to all the Lewis family.
Lori Quevedo
September 6, 2012
My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Lewis family. Remember, there's now another angel in heaven watching over you.
Fr. James Elliott O'Neal
September 5, 2012
To MaryEllen and the entire Lewis Family"
Please accept my deepest sympathies for the loss of your beloved Phil. I have such fond memories of him from St. Juliana's. I remember him at daily Mass; it was the early one and he was serving the altar. One time after celebrating Mass at St. Juliana's he came up to me and told me that my father really loved me as his son. I was very touched by that statement and haven't forgotten it. He was one of a kind; a kind gentleman. God bless him and the entire family! Requiescat in Pace!
Bobby and Kat Oen
September 5, 2012
Sending our love, our thoughts and of course our prayers to the entire family. Uncle Phil was one of kind, his compassion and convictions made you want to be a better person. He will be missed by so many and remembered with admiration and love.
George Mastics
September 5, 2012
Dear Lewis Family,
I have no words to express to you my sadness of the loss of your father. The world is lesser place without him but I know he is with God and the angels and even heaven has improved with his presences there. I know you too are sure of this and yet this knowledge cannot diminish his loss.
GOD BLESS The Mastics Family
George frown
September 5, 2012
The State of Florida has lost one its greatest servants...a man of great talent and greater humility.
As a former legislator - I relished our conversations of how "the process" worked in the old days.
My condolences to the Senator's family.
Anne Mackenzie, Florida House 1982-1998.
Tallahassee, Fl
Barbara Ottey
September 5, 2012
To the Lewis Familt : My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow.
anne richard
September 5, 2012
I would like to offer my sympathy and prayers to Mary Ellen and family on the death of Phil.
Kathy Mizereck
September 5, 2012
Sen. Lewis was an incredible mentor, leader and inspiration to so many of us. I am so thankful to have been able to learn from him and to call him my friend, and I will miss the birthday calls from him!
Jane & Richard McFarlain
September 5, 2012
A man who never forgot his friends. We always looked forward to hearing from him on birthdays, anniversaries and in between. There are not enough adjectives to describe this wonderful, caring man. Our deepest sympathies to all his family.
David Smith
September 5, 2012
How do I begin to say how much loss the Smith family feels with the passing of Senator Lewis. From my earliest memories of St. Ann's, the Lewis family was there. I remember him at football games cheering on the Crusaders, my brother Sam, his brother Ed, and so many more. Then, as a State employee, going to the Senator on a number of occasions, seeking help, or guidance. Always he greeted me as if I was one of his family, and in a way, I think we all were. His generosity, humor, and well wishes, whether telling a good story, or listening, will be sorely missed. All of the Smith family wish to give our sincere condolences to all the Senator's family, especially his beloved wife, Maryellen. May God grant him eternal rest.
Lise Steinhauer
September 5, 2012
I helped the Senator record his oral history, which he had to be talked into. His humility was heartwarming, out of balance with his greatness. I echo all the kind words here, especially for the family who will mourn his absence until they meet again.
Jerry Sullivan
September 5, 2012
Cousin Phil was one of the kindest person I have ever met. He had a dry wit that always made me laugh. He goes now to see his family especially his sons in heaven as well as my father. God Bless his family.
Willa Fearrington
September 5, 2012
Dan and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Phil was a true public servant always guided by the best interests of his beloved state. Like all who knew him, I was blessed to have enjoyed his wisdom and kindness.
Bob Johnson
September 5, 2012
Senator Lewis was in the Senate when I was in the House. Phil was the most highly regarded legislator I ever knew. HJe was always available and open with his advice, and, it was never them or us, but what was best for the state of Florida. When I went to the Senate, Phil was the elder statesman and still the wizard of politics and diplomacy. His legacy is broad and wide. I do not shed tears very often, but I shed them for his passing. God is fortunate to have a new adviser. Bob Johnson
September 5, 2012
Paulette~I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. God needed another angel to help him. So much for him to do. Hugs to you and yours. Love you, Paula Hays
Tom Bornhorst
September 5, 2012
Truly a wonderful person. He was an inspiration to all. We will miss him. God bless.
Tom & Margaret Bornhorst
Bill Rose
September 5, 2012
Phil was the most honest, good-hearted public servant I ever met, a servant of God and his fellow man. My condolences to his wife and family.
Irene Venoff
September 5, 2012
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family.
Julie Russell
September 5, 2012
What an incredible gentleman and a scholar
Billie Walsh
September 5, 2012
Thank you Phil Lewis for all the good things you have done for this area Paul and I have had great love and respect for you. Condolences to all the family.
John F. Clarke
September 5, 2012
Blessings and condolences for the Lewis family during their time of grief.
Joel Engelhardt
September 4, 2012
Listening to Phil Lewis tell stories from the 1960s of his business dealings and friendship with John D. MacArthur is one of the highlights of my reporting career. Thanks Phil for many fine conversations and the generous sharing of your time.
September 4, 2012
Senator Lewis always had a kind and encouraging word for all. Deepest sympathy to the family.
Jeff Waites, Riviera Beach Police, Retired
Kelley Dunn
September 4, 2012
Senator Lewis was a good friend of my late father, Sen. Ed Dunn. I will never forget the kind letter he sent me after my dad passed and the words of encouragement he always had for me regarding my career in television. God bless the Lewis family...this state has lost another fine man.
Senator Lewis' Everglades
Kimberly Mitchell
September 4, 2012
Such a man. A true gentleman. A true statesman. Remarkable patriarch of an amazing Florida family. I will miss Senator Lewis for the rest of my life. God speed, Phil Lewis.
Mike Jones
September 4, 2012
He was the finest man I have ever known.I will miss him and think of him often.My thoughts and prayers to Maryellen and all the Lewis family
Mark Fallon
September 4, 2012
My prayers and condolences go out to the Lewis family today. I have the greatest respect for Senator Lewis and have warm memories at him taking the time to attend both of my parents' funerals in years gone by. He was both a great and a humble man, and I will always remember him that way. God bless the Lewis family .
Chip Collins
September 4, 2012
The finest friend, mentor, family man, statesman, and person one could ever imagine to be associated. Thanks Phil, thank you Senator!
Michael Lewis
September 4, 2012
Thank you for all you were. I will miss you more than I can ever say. My condolances to the Lewis Angels.
Bob Butler
September 4, 2012
West Palm Beach and the Catholic community there are now missing their keystone. I don't like the world as much without Phil Lewis in it. My condolences to Mrs Lewis, Juliana and all her siblings.
Mike O'Farrell
September 4, 2012
Senator Lewis was one of the greatest statesman and finest gentleman I ever had the privilege of working with. My thoughts and prayers are with you
Marty Colin
September 4, 2012
To Diana and the Lewis Family: My deep sympathies to you. Your father was a wonderful man who meant a great deal to a lot of people. Most of all, he was a kind soul; something missing from most. Judge Marty Colin
Kerry Gallagher
September 4, 2012
With deep sympathy to the entire Lewis family. Sen. Lewis was a good friend to our family for many years. It has been an honor and a privilege to know him. He will always be in our thoughts and prayers. The world is a much kinder place thanks to his presence. Our love and sympathy to MaryEllen, his children and his extended family. Nan, Kerry and all the Gallaghers.
Annie Marie Delgado
September 4, 2012
My heart is broken. We have lost one of the GREAT ones. Shoes that could never be filled. I'll miss you my friend. My thoughts and prayer are with the Lewis family. God Bless you all.
Joe Garbarino
September 4, 2012
The world is both a better place because of Mr. Lewis - and filled with a tremendous loss with his passing.
Susan Bosso
September 4, 2012
My dearest Uncle Phil,
I miss you already. I am very sad today for me and very happy for you. You get to see Casey and Mark again and be with the Lord your savior. I will miss your goodness, humility, courage, integrity and compassion. I only wish there were more people like you in the world. God Bless you Uncle Phil, and I am going to miss you. Susie
Theresa LePore
September 4, 2012
The world has lost a great man. My deepest sympathy to Maryellen and all of the "Lewis Angels". You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Theresa & Michael
Edward Criser
September 4, 2012
So sorry to hear of your precious family's loss. The Senator was a very special man and I enjoyed spending time with him personally and professionally. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
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