Born in Portland, Oregon, James Charles Lewis, Jr. entered this world on July 18, 1945 to James Charles “JC” Lewis, Sr. and Earnie Key-Lewis and of course, also received by his BIG sister, Tina. From birth he experienced many challenges in which he was determined to overcome. He was always social and loved to talk. The joy of any upcoming birthday was to be celebrated; adamantly he’d make you aware of his day!. He also had an passion for music of all types.
Missionaries from Arkansas, Mattie Beatrice Key and Blanche Washington started prayer meetings in their homes during the early portion of the 1940’s. As the membership begin to increase and upon the marriage of JC Lewis, Sr. to eldest Key daughter Earnie, Elder JC Sr. was asked to be the Pastor of Westside Church of God in Christ , located in Portland on 5th and NW Flanders. You see, James foundation was rooted in Christ!
In 1985, shortly after the inception of Love Temple Church of God in Christ, founded by Pastor Paul and Mother Betty Green, Sr. James joined membership. Superintendent and Supervisor Green were very receptive to loving and sharing Christ with their members. James loved the Lord and was always ready to go to church. Uber services is new for us, but James anxiously awaited Pastor Green to pick him up on Sundays.
James was at the Goodwill Industries for a short while and moved to Port City (a sheltered workshop) where he worked for fourteen years. Port City had employment and activities for people with disabilities. He loved to work, and was extremely proud of receiving his “PAYCHECK” which he showed off.
James health began decline in 2009. Four times he suffered pneumonia which left him in a cycle of hospital stays. Through it all God was with him!
He was preceded in death by his father, Pastor JC Lewis, Sr.; mother, Earnie Key Lewis; Grandparents Leonard & Mattie Beatrice Key; Uncles, Leonard Jr., Homer and Joe Key; Aunts, Edith Key, LaFrances Key, Mattie Delores Munson, and Betty Jo Key.
James leave to cherish his memory Sister; Tina Lewis, Nephew; Darrick Lewis, Niece; Deanna Lewis, Uncle; Walter (Lilly Mae) Key, Aunts; Mae, Mary & Mary Ella Key, grands / great nieces and nephews, host of cousins, Love Temple family and friends.
May the Memories of James Charles Lewis, Jr. live on in our Hearts Forever!
