Clinton Charles Lewis, Sr. was born March 2, 1953, to his parents, Joyce Hearn and Paul Lewis, Sr. Clinton also had a strong relationship with his late stepfather, Ray Hearn and his children Randy, Patrice, Donna and Sharon. Clinton was a very charismatic and energetic child growing up and his curiosity bloomed throughout his teenage and adult years. As he grew older, duty to his people and his country called Clinton to join the Army, where he served from 1971-1974.
There is a saying popular among veterans, “It is better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.” That was very true for Clint as he drove into his life headfirst. He never looked back on his life in anger or regret. He was honorable in his service and even more so in his morals and habits. He always looked after his family and was loyal until the end. While the war might have made his outer shell hard, it never changed his heart. Clinton had a great sense of humor with a few funny quirks, and mannerisms but he showed everyone how dedicated, admirable, and respectable he held himself to be. He survived war, marriage, and fatherhood. Even through difficult times, he held his head high and fought whatever battle came his way. That is who Clinton Lewis was; a true man in mind and a true warrior at heart.
Clinton spent a lot of his free time watching TV. His favorite shows included Deadliest Catch, Gold Rush, and an endless list of westerns that he watched a thousand times over. Clint had an intense love for NASCAR racing and a collection of NASCAR memorabilia that was the envy of many.
Clinton and Jodi enjoyed their numerous trips to Lancaster, Pa., returning home with a car packed full of gifts and knick-knacks for home and family.
Even though he lost this one long and difficult battle with cancer on Sept. 17 at 9:55 a.m., he conquered so many previous medical battles and fought vigorously until the end. Clint was not just a man of face, he was a man of heart, and his heart will forever be adored by those who succeed him, such as his mother, Joyce Hearn, his siblings, Cheryl Einstein, Sabrina Papps, and Paul Lewis Jr. Other special family members included Trudy, Cristy, Joi, Grant and Tom. Clint will live on through his children: the eldest, Christine and her husband Buddy and their children, Chasity, Hunter, Mary, and Phoenix; Clint’s second eldest, Connie and her husband Matt and their children, Katlyn, Kobe, and Karly; Clint’s youngest child, Clint Jr. and his wife, Sarah and their children, Cooper and Londyn. Clinton will also be missed by many nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.
Finally, Clint Lewis Sr.’s memory will continue to live on in those whose lives he forever influenced, such as his wife of 34 years, Jodi Lewis and his step-son, John Fothergill III, daughter-in-law, Tanya, and their children, Kathryn and Kylie.
A funeral service with military honors was held on Monday, Sept. 23 at 11 a.m. at Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Pastor Mike Phillips officiated.
Memorial contributions may be sent in his memory to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.