Jerry Anthony Lewis

Jerry Anthony Lewis, 84, of Tyler, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life will be held 10:00 AM, Friday, January 23, 2026, at Bascom Methodist Church, with Pastor Dan Seal officiating. Services are under the direction of Brosang Family Funeral & Cremation Services.

Jerry was born on July 18, 1941, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Foster and Hazel Brown Lewis, and grew up in Broken Arrow. There, he married his high school sweetheart, Myrna Gallo Lewis, marking the start of a lifelong journey together that spanned 65 years. In the early days of their relationship, Jerry worked for Myrna's father at the family service station; he specifically requested the closing shift so he could deliver the daily earnings to the house each night for the chance to see Myrna.

After proudly serving four years in the United States Air Force, Jerry began a 25-year career in the coal industry. He rose steadily through the ranks, advancing from construction worker and welder to master mechanic then mine superintendent, overseeing projects throughout Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Jerry's career reached a pinnacle in Kentucky, where he spearheaded the development of what was, at the time, the largest mine in the country. He managed every facet of the operation from its inception, including land acquisition and strategic planning, the procurement of heavy equipment, and the hiring of the mine workforce.

Their impact in Kentucky also extended to the community, as he and Myrna were among the four founding families of a volunteer fire department. Together, they built the department from the ground up, securing a facility, raising funds for their first truck, and undergoing the training necessary to serve as volunteer firefighters.

In 1984, the Lewis family moved to Tyler as Jerry transitioned into selling lubricants for mining and railroad equipment, a role that ultimately allowed him to travel the world. He later joined the corporate office in Rockwall, Texas. Choosing not to relocate, Jerry spent the next 15 years commuting from Tyler before his retirement.

Never one to sit still, Jerry poured his energy into service and fun. Through the years, he could most often be found on his land, JML Farms, tending to his cattle, goats, dogs, and cats. Always a good neighbor, he stayed busy in his shop-welding, repairing, or fixing anything that needed attention, ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He was a devoted member of the Masonic Lodge and found great joy as a Shriner, where he was known as "Nubbin" the clown. He served as President of the Shriners Clown organization, and as Chief of Staff for the Potentate and as Head of Hospitality. His spirit of devotion also shone through at Bascom Methodist Church, where he remained a faithful and active member, always looking for ways to give back to his community.

Jerry will be remembered most for his quick wit, warm heart, and legendary barbecue. He even shared with his caregiver in his last days how to cook the perfect steak. He had a gift for turning any gathering into a celebration; if there was laughter in the room, Jerry was at the center of it-often with a beer in one hand and a joke ready to go. Even when arriving home a little too late, he knew how to win a smile from Myrna, famously announcing: "Don't pay the ransom, Darlin', I've escaped!"

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Georgina Lewis Haley. Jerry leaves behind his greatest pride and joy: his beloved wife, Myrna; his children, Kandee Franklin, Jeff and Donna Lewis, and Larry and Leanne Lewis; seven grandsons; five great-grandchildren (with another on the way), and nephew James L. Haley. All of them carry forward his enduring legacy of family, faith, and fun.

His grandsons-Joshua Franklin, Tyler Franklin, Zachary Franklin, Joseph Lewis, Samuel Lewis, Jack Lewis, and John Lewis-will serve as honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the missions program at Bascom Methodist Church.