LCDR James "Jim" Lester Lewis USN (Ret.)

LCDR James “Jim” Lester Lewis USN (Ret.)

Precise & Sharp-Minded -

LCDR James “Jim” Lester Lewis USN (Ret.), age 71, of Mechanicsburg, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 29, 2021.  Jim was born on Saturday, September 10, 1949, in Columbus, OH to the late Lester Alphonso Lewis and Gladys Iona (Simmons) Fester.  Jim was the widower of Judith “Judy” Ann (Jones) Lewis, whom he married on May 28, 1988, and who died on September 8, 2010.  In addition to his parents and wife, Jim is preceded in death by his two sisters: Ruth Detty and Helen Agin; and his toy poodle, Bingo.

Jim’s survivors include his four children: Christopher “Chris” J. Lewis of Mechanicsburg, David M. Lewis and wife, Amber, of Mechanicsburg, David “Dave” W. Smith and wife, Debbie, of Mechanicsburg, Kristina M. Nousianen of Mechanicsburg; his two grandchildren: Jesse K. Lewis and Jacqueline N. Lewis, both of Mechanicsburg; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and his two beloved feline companions: Baby and Daisy.

Jim graduated from North High School as part of the class of 1967.  He proudly served in the United States Navy from September 1967 until his retirement in June 1990.  Jim continued his education by earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Applied Science in 1972 from Miami University in Ohio.  In 1975, he graduated from the Navy Supply Corps School in Athens, GA and from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA with a Master’s Degree in Computer Science in 1986.  Jim served aboard both the USS Coontz and USS Lawrence in tours such as the Caribbean, Black Sea/Mediterranean, Arctic, and African.  His last assignment included missile defense in Saudi Arabia.  Some of Jim’s awards included: Navy “E” Ribbon, Navy Achievement Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Meritorious Unit Commendation.  However, there is another title that Jim received, Golden Shellback, since he traveled across the intersection point of 0 degrees longitude and 0 degrees latitude in the Gulf of Guinea.  He also joined the Order of the Blue Nose because he crossed the Arctic Circle.  Jim was grateful that his time in the Navy brought him all over world and he always looked back on those times filled with much pride.

He retired from the Navy Supply Depot in Mechanicsburg after nearly eight years of service as a computer technician.  Jim then retired from CRM Computer Technology after about 10 years.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #109 in Mechanicsburg.  Jim was a precise man with a sharp mind and a love for technology, especially for his computer.  When he wasn’t keeping busy at his desk, Jim could be found watching game shows.  He was also known for being quite the jokester, a quality that will be missed by everyone who knew him.

All are welcome to join Jim’s family at his viewing on Monday, September 13, 2021, from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 10:15 a.m. at Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Celebrant George Spangler officiating.  Jim’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Buhrig’s Gathering Place (next to the funeral home) immediately following the service.  Burial will follow the reception in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, where full military honors will be presented.  Honored to be pallbearers are: Christopher Lewis, David Lewis, and David Smith.

Contributions in celebration of Jim’s life can be made to American Legion Post #109, 224 West Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

Jim’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Jim’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.