Norris Sinclair Lewis

Dr. Norris Sinclair Lewis Sr. was born July 20, 1945, in Atlanta, GA. He was the beloved son of the late Moselle and Edwin Don Lewis, Sr., who had ten children. Norris was the ninth child and the youngest of three sons.

Growing up Norris was loved and spoiled by his older siblings. Norris attended Anderson Park Atlanta elementary school and Turner High School, where he excelled in his studies. Leaving high school early, he enrolled in Morehouse College with a scholarship where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Morehouse in 1967. He went on to attend Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine in 1973. He also served his country in the U.S. Army at Fort Benning, GA. He later earned a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Cincinnati in 1984. He was board certified in Public Health and General Preventive Medicine.

Norris devoted his professional life to the service of others and public health. His dedication led him to practice in the sole hospital in Quitman, Georgia, to treating patients at a clinic in Nashville, TN, and to oversee the U.S. Public Health Service’s Scholarship Program. He retired from the U.S. Public Health Service as a commissioned officer with the rank of Captain. After his retirement, he found the time to serve on the faculty at the Morehouse School of Medicine for its Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine Master of Public Health Program as well a work in various health clinics and emergency rooms.

Notwithstanding his academic and professional achievements, nothing was more important to Norris than his family. Norris dedicated his life to building those around him whether with kind words, advice, financial support or even a place to stay.

Norris had three children Norris Jr., Rachelle, and Brian, whom he adored, with his first wife, Annette Bull Lewis. He spent their formative years taking them on family road trips and instilling independence and love. There is nothing he would not do for his children including move across the country to be with them. His children had the opportunity not only to have him as a father and advisor, but also a friend.

After Norris retired and returned home to Georgia, he met his beloved wife and partner, Esther. When Esther and Norris married, he added an additional daughter through their union, Brandi Michelle who Norris loved as his own and would do anything for. Norris and Esther spent their time together traveling the world, dancing, going to Brandi’s High School and College games, living and loving.

Norris was proceeded in death by his loving parents and late Edwin D. Lewis Sr. and Moselle Todd Lewis and his eldest brother late Edwin Don, Jr. He is survived by the love his life, and beloved wife, Esther Lewis, his first wife, Annette Bull Lewis, his children: Norris, Jr. (and Camille’s mother, Keisha), Rachelle and Kamran’s father (Katokie), Brian (and his wife, Mujinga) and Brandi. His five grandchildren whom he spoiled with his love, laughter, and generosity: Camille, Imara, Kalimba, Inaya, and Kamran. His seven sisters Elaine, Gwendolyn, Angelique, Jewel, Alverna, Barbara Ann and Iris, and his surviving brother George and a host of loving nieces and nephews Norris’s love of family knew no bounds. He leaves behind a legacy of love.

Services were held at Carmichael-Hemperley Funeral Home & Crematory in Peachtree City, GA.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carmichaelhemperleypeachtree.com for the Lewis family.