Obituary of Robert Ray Lewis

Called to his Heavenly Home, Robert Ray Lewis, 84, a lifelong resident of the Summer School Road area, Morgantown, passed peacefully with family by his side on Thursday, March 18, 2021. Robert was born on December 17, 1936 to the late Lloyd F. and Inus Bell (Murray) Lewis. Robert graduated from Morgantown High School. He was a retired correctional officer for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, but his greatest passion was serving the Lord. He was a Methodist of Christian faith and a member of Burns Chapel Church. Robert was a gifted piano player and played during church services, weddings, funerals, and Tri-District Sings. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather survived by his wife of 63 years, Shirley Ann Cole Lewis, children: Dwain R. Lewis, Michelle J. Shockley (William), Melanie E. Groves (Matthew) and Gregory M. Lewis (Bobbie). Grandchildren: Amber D. Offutt (Kevin), Brandi R. Ambrose (Robert), Courtney D. Lewis, Aaron S. Lewis (Emily), Austen S. Lewis, Tyler Offutt, Jordan E. Groves, Sarah and Brae Lynn Lewis. Great-grandchildren: Blake Ambrose, Oliver Ambrose, Jasper Ambrose, JaSean Echols, Paisley Tritchler, and Skyleigh Lewis. Sister, Audrey Summers (Ray Summers Jr.), several nieces, nephews and many others who looked up to him as a father and grandpa. Robert was preceded in death by brothers: Darris, Dale, Gerald, Ralph and Clarence Lewis, one half-brother, Edgar Murray, two sisters: Dana Hall and Ardith McDonald; one grandson, Thomas H. Groves, and one great-granddaughter, Matayah L. Patrick. Due to the current COVID-19 guidelines, wearing a mask and social distancing are requested. The family will receive family and friends at Nicholson Chapel Church on Summer School Road on Sunday, March 21 from 5-7pm and again on Monday, March 22nd from 12pm until time of service at 1pm with Pastor Dan Meadows officiating and interment immediately following in Nicholson Cemetery. The Family thanks the Amedisys Hospice and Senior Monongalians Inc. for their care and support. In Lieu of flowers, the Family requests donations be made to Burns Chapel United Methodist Church, 2300 Summer School Rd., Morgantown, WV 26508 or Nicholson Chapel Church, 1326 Summer School Rd., Morgantown, WV 26508 in Robert's memory. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.