AFCM US Navy Retired William Joshua "W.J." Lewis

AFCM United States Navy Retired Veteran, William Joshua “W.J.” Lewis, 86, of Bladenboro went to his eternal home on Monday, November 4, 2024 while at UNC Southeastern in Lumberton. W.J. was born and raised in Bladen County. He was the son of the late James Monroe Lewis and Clara Evers Bryan of Bladen County. He joins his beloved wife, Carolyn Lewis, infant son, James Gregory Lewis, one sister, Emma Bryant, and brother-in-law, Billy Bryant. 

W.J. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle. He enjoyed attending and watching baseball games, listening to Willie’s Roadhouse, doing word searches, and drinking his black coffee. W.J. was an avid watch and hat collector.  He also enjoyed dining out, especially for breakfast, and his favorite spots were Denny’s and Waffle House. He was known by all the staff as they greeted him by name and knew his order by heart. He will always be remembered for the deep love he had for his family and his country. 

Left to cherish wonderful memories are sons Michael Lewis (Charlene) and Jonathan Lewis (Sherry) both of Bladenboro, sisters-in-law Shirley Edwards of Raeford, and Joyce Pettus of Fort Mills, SC, four grandchildren Ethan Lewis (Katie), Trent Lewis, Callie Bryan (Noah), and Logan Lewis. He also had two great grandchildren, Leighton and Everleigh Lewis, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, November 8, at the Bladenboro Chapel of Bladen Gaskins in Bladenboro. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 9 at Lewis Cemetery in Bladenboro with Pastor David G. Anderson officiating.