Willie Mae Lewis

On Tuesday, March 26th, the beloved Willie Mae Lewis, mother of Paulette Grayson and Nadine Gross, passed away in the loving care of her daughters, granddaughter Janine Gross and son-in-law Vernon Grayson. She was born on August 12, 1930 in Washington, DC and was the fourth of five children born of Emma Richardson and Sherman Lewis. Willie Mae is also survived by her sister Ernestine Doby, step-brother Archie Richardson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Willie Mae worked for the federal government as a Computer Operator for many years and was blessed to enjoy 28 years of retirement. She was a woman of good character and was kind, honest, and truthful and caring person; these are just some of the characteristics which made her a woman who was as strong as a polished diamond. In her late years she became a straight shooter who told you exactly what was on her mind, without reservations?this seem to be a privilege God grants to His senior citizens! She was accepting of her illness and often made the family caregivers laugh-out-loud, her humor kept our spirits light during her final departure. She was a classy lady all the way! Willie Mae had a zest for life and enjoyed taking bus trips with her friends Mrs. Rosa Smith and Mrs. Odessa Thompson. They always returned from vacation with big smiles on their faces and a spring in their steps. At home we referred to them as the Golden Girls and Ms. Rosa said, ?Willie Mae was the boss!? She also had a long-friendship with the late, Mrs. Tallalah Mitchell and her family. When they were together, they really let their hair down, as they frequently broke into loud-side-splitting laughter over something they found humorous. Willie Mae was a dedicated member of Mt. Sinai Baptist Church and regularly attended early Sunday worship services while she sat with her close friends. She also attended and participated in many other church activities. She enjoyed going to exercise classes, which kept her vigorous and lively in her golden-years. Willie Mae was a loving pet owner and took daily walks with her dog Mai Tai. She made certain that every dog she owned was well cared for and groomed, almost as good as she took care of herself. Willie Mae was a snazzy dresser with many talents including cake making and sewing. She left a legacy of her talents with her daughters and granddaughter to carry on the family?s traditions. Willie Mae was also a mother to many of their friends and they enjoyed sharing her love. All the youngsters in the family and young friends of the family affectionately called her ?Ma Mae.? Although we are sad she is no longer with us, she has touched our lives in a way that will continue to bring happiness and fond memories. In her last days, she told her family that she was at peace and had no pains, no worries, and no regrets. Her presence in our lives will service as a place of comfort, unwavering strength and guidance that will stay in our hearts forever, as we continue to walk and live in the spirit of the Lord.

Willie Mae Lewis

August 12, 1930 - March 26, 2013