Obituary of Evelyn L Lewis

Very quietly, our Heavenly Father in his infinite wisdom, gently closed the eyes of our beloved Evelyn, and called her to eternal rest on Sunday, November 30, 2014. Evelyn Lavita Lewis was a native of Philadelphia, PA and a longtime member of Holy Temple Church of God In Christ. Born into a large family she was one of ten surviving children born to James and Anna Killen, who preceded her in death. Evelyn’s large family was a loving and close-knit, and she truly loved everyone. As a child, Evelyn was one of the quieter children in her family and shared a close relationship with each of her siblings, and cousins who sometimes lived with the family. Evelyn excelled in school and after graduating from Overbrook High School in Philadelphia she attended and graduated from Cheyney Teachers College of Pennsylvania. In April of 1958, Evelyn married the love of her life, General William Lewis, and with him raised two children with love, Gerald and Patricia. A longtime resident of Oakland, California, Evelyn dedicated her life to education, teaching in the Oakland Unified School District for more than 25 years. Evelyn was also a life-time member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and was active in the Oakland Alumnae Chapter for many years. She attended conferences and could be seen wearing her favorite Delta necklace every day. Evelyn was immensely curious and well traveled, traveling to Africa, Europe and throughout North America. In 2003, Evelyn moved to New Jersey to nearer to her remaining family, who she always enjoyed spending time with. She will be remembered by all as a joyful, thoughtful, caring, loving and always positive person. Ever cheerful Evelyn, Aunt Bebe always has a smile for everyone and never complained. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband; daughter Patricia; both parents; brothers James, Clarence and Sonny; sisters, Geraldine, Dorothy and Barbara. Evelyn is survived by her son Gerald; her beloved granddaughter Janae; sisters Gloria Georgia, Carol Killen and Joan Killen and a host of nieces and nephews, all of whom celebrate her wonderful love-filled life.