June 30, 2025, 61, Goldsboro —
Dr. John Martyn Lewis, 61, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Wayne UNC Healthcare. Born in Fairfax, Virginia, on May 7, 1964, he was the son of Peggy Derring Lewis and the late Richard Henry Lewis.
In addition to his father, John was preceded in death by his aunt, Travis Derring.
John is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Frost Lewis; daughters, Kristyn Lewis and Kelly Lewis; sister, Susan Casey, and her husband, Patrick; brother, Ricky Lewis, and his wife, V; uncle, Jack Derring; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. John is also survived by his many animal friends.
John was a man of many admirable qualities—genuine, witty, intelligent, and compassionate. His life was a testament to kindness, diligence, and unwavering attention to detail in all he did.
He devoted his professional life to the care and well-being of animals, serving as a dedicated veterinarian at Eastwaye Veterinary Clinic. He put his heart and soul into every patient. His love for animals ran deep, and his gentle, patient approach earned the trust and gratitude of both pets and their owners alike. Whether comforting a nervous pet or mentoring a young vet tech and vet students, John’s warmth and wisdom made a lasting impact on everyone he met.
Outside of his work, John found solace and joy spending time with his family in the beauty of nature. He cherished time spent outdoors, tending to his flourishing garden and walking his picturesque property. He also enjoyed playing golf and had a lifelong appreciation for sports, having played various ones in his youth. In his younger years, he especially loved surfing. Nature was his sanctuary—a place where he found peace, inspiration, and connection to something greater.
In 2023, John experienced a profound spiritual transformation. Once an agnostic, he came to know the Lord with a heart full of faith. He found a home at Bethel Church, where he was baptized and became a devoted member of the congregation. Reading his Bible daily and living out his faith, John’s life took on a renewed purpose rooted in grace and hope.
John’s legacy is one of integrity, kindness, and quiet strength. He lived deliberately, loved deeply, and left the world better than he found it. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
A memorial service to celebrate John’s life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Bethel Church in Goldsboro. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Wayne County Animal Shelter, 1600 Clingman Street, Goldsboro, NC 27534, or to the Lenoir County SPCA, P.O. Box 1481, Kinston, NC 28503, in memory of Dr. John Lewis.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home.
