Obituary

Cheryl Ann Lewis: A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Love

Born Cheryl Ann McGill on May 11, 1952, to the late Betty and Raymond McGill, Cheryl was a beacon of love, faith, and resilience. Her journey began in Tulsa, Oklahoma where she was guided within the historic walls of Dunbar Elementary School, honed her skills at Carver Middle School, and blossomed into a promising leader with the mighty class of 1970 from Booker T. Washington High School. It was here that Cheryl’s musical talents shone brightly as she played the flute in the T-Connection marching band, setting the stage for a life filled with harmony and love.

In 1971, Cheryl was joined in marriage with the love of her life Willie Lewis Sr., marking the beginning of a covenant that would extend beyond the bounds of earthly life. Together, they welcomed two children, Lamacia (Macy) and Willie Jr., into a home where the love of the Lord was the foundation. As founding pastors of Redeemed by Grace Church, Pastor Willie and First Lady Cheryl Lewis dedicated their lives to ministry, touching countless souls with the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ. First Lady Cheryl was as a spiritual mother, who exemplified the redeeming grace of God’s love, teaching others to extend that love further.

A Great Career

Shortly after completing high school. Cheryl embarked on a remarkable 30-year career with Southwestern Bell, a tenure that not only highlighted her dedication but also her passion for connecting people. As a telephone operator, Cheryl was at the heart of communication, a role she cherished and excelled in. Her voice and patience made her a favorite, while her colleagues admired her for her reliability, warmth, and mentorship. Cheryl’s career at Southwestern Bell was more than a job; it was a testament to her belief in the importance of connection and community, values that she carried into every aspect of her life.

A Mother’s Love

Cheryl’s life is a touching testament to the deep bonds of family and the enduring power of love. As a devoted mother, Cheryl’s relationship with her children showcased the unique ways in which families connect and support each other through life’s journey. Her long phone conversations with her son were more than just check-ins; they were lifelines of love, laughter, and shared experiences. Despite the physical distance that his job imposed, these calls bridged the gap, allowing their relationship to thrive. It was a ritual that sustained them, a testament to their mutual devotion and the strength of their bond.

With her daughter, Macy, Cheryl enjoyed outings that were not merely about exploring new places or enjoying meals together; they were cherished moments of companionship and mutual support. As Cheryl faced illness, Macy’s intentional care became an embodiment of unwavering love and dedication. Their adventures together were blended with an added layer of significance, as each outing became a precious memory in the making. Macy’s devotion to Cheryl during this challenging time illustrated the depth of their bond and the resilience of their love.

A Grandmother’s Heart

Cheryl, also affectionally known by her grandchildren as Memaw and Big Momma, displayed intentional engagement and boundless love with her grandchildren. Big Momma’s dedication to her family was unwavering, and she took great pride in being a foundation of support for them. You would often find her at a performance, game, party, or graduation, supporting those she loved the most.

An Intentional Friendship

Her adventures with her best friend, Valerie, became legendary, earning them the affectionate nickname of Thelma and Louise. The two shared a source of endless laughter and harmonious experiences, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Their friendship was a beautiful blend of spontaneity and unwavering loyalty. From road trips to long phone chats, Thelma and Louise embraced every moment with a zest for life that was truly infectious. Their bond was a testament to the power of true friendship, where differences were celebrated, and challenges were faced together with courage and grace. As they navigated through life’s twists and turns, one thing remained constant – their unbreakable bond that would withstand the test of time. Thelma and Louise were not just friends; they were kindred spirits on a journey of love, laughter, and endless adventures.

The Final Hour

The number seven holds significant symbolic weight in biblical scripture, often representing completeness, perfection, and God’s divine order. Genesis 2:2-3 says, “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; on the seventh day he rested from all his work. On April 1, 2024, Cheryl Lewis went from labor to rest, seven years after the date of her husband on April 1, 2017, in total completion of their earthly journey together. Apostle Willie and First Lady Cheryl’s love was united in a timeless bond that transcended earthly time. It is a reminder that even in endings, there is a sense of divine order and God’s presence.

Legacy

First Lady’s presence on earth will forever be missed and we look forward to the day when we can see her again. Waiting to greet her was the love of her life, her devoted husband, Apostle Willie Lewis Sr, parents, Betty Wright and Raymond McGill, parents-in-love Mr. & Mrs. Belle, Mr. Willie Lewis, beloved sister Bonita McGill, brother Raymond Jr, sisters-in-love Carita, Lanita, and Patricia, brothers-in-love Johnny, and Norman.

Left to honor her memory are her children, Lamacia and her husband Jamey Ransom, son Willie and his wife Charity Lewis, her mother-in-love Jamesetta Lewis, brothers Marshall Randolph, Michael Randolph, Anthony McGill and Timothy McGill, sisters Deborah Randolph, Elizabeth McGill Hollinquest and Jacqueline McGill,  brother-in-love Clay (Belinda) Lewis, Guy Lewis, sisters-in-love Donna (Dennis) Henley, Sallie (Ed) Van Zandt, her cherished grandchildren Porsha, Devonti, Jamey Jr. Jasmine, Travon, Jada, Tre, Elijah, Colton, a host of great-grandchildren and a vast circle of family and friends.

Cheryl’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, boundless love, and the deep, enduring connections that she fostered throughout her life. As we celebrate her life, we remember her testament to the power of love, the strength of faith, and the beauty of family. Her spirit, teachings, and love continue to inspire us, guiding us toward the light of grace and redemption.

Visitation for Mrs. Lewis will be held on Thursday, April 11, from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home, 2103 E. 3rd St., Tulsa, OK 74104.

The funeral service will take place on Friday, April 12, 11:00 a.m., at Help to Hope Church followed by interment at Crown Hill Cemetery.