John Lewis

John was born on December 3, 1965 in Sampson County, NC to his parents, William Douglas Lewis, Sr. and Patricia Anne Moore Lewis. He grew up in Faison, NC and immersed himself in his small-town community as a Boy Scout, a volunteer fireman and member of Faison United Methodist Church.

He graduated from North Duplin High School in 1984. John attended Mount Olive College where he performed with the Mount Olive College Singers, prior to transferring to NC State University. While at NCSU, he enjoyed singing in the university choir and the glee club. One of his best college experiences was being a part of the Raleigh Wesley Foundation Methodist campus ministry. While there, John joined many work teams and made lifelong friends. He graduated from NCSU in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in communications.

In 1993, John married Kelly Smith, whom he met while at NCSU. They moved to Holly Springs NC in 1997 and had two children, Maggie (23) and Jacob (19).

John lived his life as an example of God’s love every day. He went out of his way to help anyone in need. And strived to improve the lives of everyone around him.

John loved music and had a talent for entertaining. He began DJing when he was in high school and developed that hobby throughout his life. He DJed countless wedding receptions, class reunions, and birthday parties. John also shared his amazing singing voice in church, weddings, or just walking through the hallways. He was known for always humming a tune.

In addition to his wife and children, John is survived by his parents, Bill and Anne Lewis, brother Doug Lewis, sister Carol Lewis Poortvliet (Ken), niece Olivia Lake Stocks (Byrne), nephew Will Lewis, niece Elizabeth Poortvliet, niece Emily Poortvliet, great-nephew Laythan, and great-niece Gracie.

A memorial service will be held at Faison United Church on Saturday, July 16 at 2:00 pm. A celebration of life service will be held on July 23, at Fairmont UMC at 2:30 pm with a visitation following the service.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions may be made in memory of John to one of his favorite charities: Rise Against Hunger, The Raleigh Wesley Foundation, or Fairmont United Methodist Church. Fond memories and expressions of condolences can be shared online at apexfuneral.net for the Lewis family.