MCCORMICK, S.C. – Archie Jefferson Lewis, Jr., husband of Frances Schumpert Lewis, died Saturday, April 12, 2014. He was the son of the late Archie J. Lewis, Sr. and Frances Andrews Lewis. Born in Johnston in 1923, he lived most of his adult life in McCormick. He was a World War II veteran serving in the Rome-Armo and North Appennines campaigns. He was the recipient of the Purple Heart, two Bronze Service Stars, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory medal. He spent two years in Army hospitals recovering from grenade shrapnel injuries while serving in Italy. He was a professional educator. After discharge from the U.S. Army, he completed his Bachelor’s degree at Wofford College and later his Master’s degree from Western Carolina University. He was a houseparent, teacher and later principal at John de la Howe School and later taught in the McCormick Public Schools where he mentored many students.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years; three sons, A. Jefferson Lewis III of Athens, Ga., Benjamin M. Lewis of Evans, Ga., and J. Preston Lewis of Spartanburg and their wives, Karen, Bobbie and Beth; three grandchildren, Andrew, Fran and Cole Lewis and one brother, John S. Lewis of Johnston. He was predeceased by his mother, father and sister, Lamar L. Payne. He was a voracious reader, especially the history of South Carolina. He was well known for his sharp wit and loved the art of a good joke.

The family received friends at McCormick United Methodist Church and a memorial service was held in the church. Interment followed with military honors in Overbrook Cemetery in McCormick. Memorials may be made to McCormick United Methodist Church, PO Box 267, McCormick, SC 29835; the American Lung Association, 55 W Wacker Dr., Suite 1150, Chicago, Il 60601 or the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St., New Orleans, La 70130.

Submitted by Eva L. Holmes with permission of the family.