James Richard Lewis

With heavy hearts and immense gratitude, we celebrate the life of James Richard Lewis, a loving father, devoted husband, and dedicated friend. He peacefully went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, with family by his side on December 6, 2024. Richard was born to the late James C. and Mildred (Cable) Lewis on April 22nd, 1938, in Johnson City, TN. He married his bride Janell Elizabeth Grimes on June 6, 1959, in Louisville, KY. Following graduation from University School in 1956, he earned a Bachelor of Theology from Southeastern Christian College, a Bachelor of Arts in English and Speech from East Texas State University, and a Master of Arts in Agency Counseling from Indiana State University. He held a teaching license in Texas and Tennessee, and a Health Care Facility Administrator license in Indiana and Tennessee.

As described in Hebrews chapter 11, Richard embodied the description of one living by faith. He was devoted to his work as church of Christ Minister in KY, LA, TX, IN, and TN. Richard was raised in, and concluded his full-time ministerial positions at the Locust Street church of Christ in Johnson City, TN. While he continued to serve in other roles of the church, his second career as Appalachian Christian Village Retirement Community CEO brought him much joy. Always the visionary, Pine Oaks (Christian Assisted Living) and Maple Crest patio homes were initiated and developed under his administration. Richard was actively involved in numerous professional and community organizations. His charismatic and philanthropic nature touched the lives of those he encountered. He was known for his leadership skills, light-hearted wit, prankster nature, and steadfast commitment to the Lord, his family, friends and colleagues.

Richard is survived by his loving daughters, Beth (Dale) Schreiner, Nancy Osman and Susan Lewis. He is fondly remembered by his cherished grandchildren Adair (Brennan) McNeil, Breanne (Matthew) Hoyt, and Kendall Osman, and Lindsey McDowell. He adored five great-grandchildren Callahan Ty and Quinn Brennan McNeil, and Lindsey’s children Shayla, Lydia, and Rory. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Emory H. Grimes Jr. and nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, sister Barbara (Marion) Kincheloe, beloved son-in-law, Ty H. Osman, and treasured grandson, Ty H. Osman, II preceded him in death.

Richard's legacy will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He impacted the lives of many and will be profoundly missed. In honoring his memory, we invite those who knew him to join us in remembrance of a remarkable man whose influence will continue to inspire us for generations to come. 

Please join the family on Saturday, December 14, 2024, for visitation at 11:00 a.m. at Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services. The celebration of life will begin at 12:30 p.m. officiated by Dr. Barry Blackburn, and live streamed via morrisbaker.com. At 2:00 p.m. we will lay him to rest in peace in a brief service at Monte Vista Memorial Park.

 The family sends sincere appreciation to the staff and residents at Christian Assisted Living and Gentiva Hospice for engaging in his jocular banter and caring for Dad so well. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions reflecting Richard's benevolent spirit and love for helping others may be sent to Woodland Bible Camp, www.woodlandbiblecamp.com, WBC1954info@gmail.com, or 15243 West 150 North, Dugger, IN 47848. 

 Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Lewis family. (423) 282-1521