March 28, 2023, 84, Goldsboro –

Michael Ray Lewis, 84, passed away on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at his home. Michael was born in Robeson County to the late Henry Ray Lewis and Charlotte Atkinson Lewis on August 14, 1938.

Michael began his career by serving his country in the United States Air Force. Michael has never been a stranger to working. He retired from Universal Leaf Tobacco Company after the Air Force and then went on to work for a short time with Smith Hardware. He taught his family the value of hard work and dedication.

When Michael wasn’t working, he could be found enjoying his favorite pastime, golf. If he wasn’t on the green, he wanted to see it on television. His friends at Lane Tree Golf Club could count on him being there if the weather cooperated. Outdoors was his favorite place to be. In the rare times, he wasn’t golfing, he looked forward to time on the water boating or fishing.

As much as he loved to work and golf, nothing compared to the time spent with his grandchildren. They were the apple of his eye and he never wanted to miss any sporting event or activities they were participating in. He was their biggest fan and most excited supporter. Along with his wife and partner, his children and his grandchildren were his greatest joys in life. Grandchildren were an extra gift he was forever grateful.

A service to celebrate Michael’s life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 2, 2023, in the sanctuary of Pine Forest United Methodist Church. The family will greet friends in the hour prior to the service in the church fellowship hall.

Michael is survived by his wife of almost 56 years, Norma Gaddy Lewis; children, Kimberly O’Dair Lewis of Goldsboro and Michael Reed Lewis and wife, Melissa of Goldsboro; grandchildren, Alexis Lewis and Gage Lewis; sister, Judith Griffin of Brunswick, GA; and the many friends he enjoyed spending time with.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his memory to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 7101 Creedmoor Road Suite 130, Raleigh, NC 27613 or to Pine Forest United Methodist Church, 867 NC 581 South, Goldsboro, NC 27530.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.