Donnie Lewis, age 82, of Smithville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Born on May 22, 1943, in Nashville to the late J.D. and Sara Stephens Lewis, Donnie lived a life marked by service, hard work, and deep devotion to his family.
A U.S. Navy veteran, Donnie served as a Seabee in Vietnam, where he skillfully operated heavy equipment and helped build infrastructure. After his military service, he returned home and applied his talents to a successful career as a small business owner, operating both Lewis Construction and Magic Video. He later retired from Rogers Group and, never one to sit still, spent his retirement years driving a school bus. He served his community as a Smithville City Alderman in the 1970’s.
Donnie was a devoted husband, having shared 31 loving years with his wife, Christine Lewis. He was a beloved father to his son, Jimmy (Gina) Lewis, and daughter, Heather (Mark) Kent. He found great joy in his role as Granddaddy to his grandchildren: Ava and Hayes Kent, Caitlin Anderson and Chelsea McCroskey. Great grandchildren: Lilly Anderson, Emilia and Adalyn Meadows, Jayme Linn Hayes and Layla James McCroskey. He is also survived by his sister Gail Coil.
He was a man of Baptist faith. Known for his gentle nature, tireless work ethic, and kind heart, Donnie touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.
Funeral services will be 2:00 pm Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at DeKalb Funeral Chapel and interment to follow in DeKalb Memorial Gardens with Military Honors conducted by the Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Tuesday, July 1, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 p.m.
Serving as pallbearers are Hayes Kent, Mark Stephens, Mike Stephens, Nate Meadows, Conner McCroskey, Todd Kent, Terry Taylor, and Donnie Roller.
In honoring Donnie’s memory, his family celebrates a life well lived and a legacy that will continue through those who loved him.
DeKalb Funeral Chapel is honored to care for the Lewis family.