Joan Lewis

Joan Lewis was born in Port of Spain, Trinidad on June 24, 1937. The daughter of parents Nellie Lewis and Julian Lesley(both deceased). She was the middle sibling of of 5 children, Kelvin, Jean (deceased), Bertram and Sharon. She attended school at Mocarapo Elementary School in St. James and later Rosehill RC School in Port of Spain. A product of humble beginnings, her working career started at the Hilton Hotel in Port of Spain where she worked as a waitress till she moved to New York City in 1967with the help of Catholic Charities. It was here that Joan aspired to better her life and that of her son Roger P. Lewis. She worked multiple jobs while attending school and supporting her small family. She received an Associates degree from Malcom King College in Harlem and later went on to complete a Bachelor's degree in Social Work at Adelphi University in Long Island. Lastly, she went on for a Master Degree at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. She worked 37 years for the City of New York as a social worker, helping those who could not help themselves.

Joan was known to her friends, family and co-workers as an industrious and tireless worker. She was an advisor and confidante to some and an inspiration to many more. Her good humor and sharp wit were her trademarks. She was a devout Catholic and was well-known to the church community. In recent years, inspite of a debilitating illness, she never waivered in her faith. She leaves behind a son, Roger P. Lewis, a daughter-in-law, Sheila Rhodes-Lewis , a grandson, Kai Lewis, brothers Kelvin Lewis, Bertram Lewis, sisters Jean Shepherd, Sharon Lewis, and a host of nieces, nephews and dear friends. She will be sorely missed.