Oliver Lewis

Oliver Lewis lived a life that could never be defined by just one title. He was a soldier, a boxer, a mentor, a poet, a deacon, a father, a grandfather, a brother, an uncle and a friend. He was someone who faced life's challenges head-on and continued to grow throughout his journey and left a lasting impression on those who knew him. Oliver passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the age of 72. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Oliver was the son of John "J.T." Lewis and Artie Mae Lewis, whose roots traced back to Inverness and Isola, Mississippi. Raised as part of a large family, he remained proud of his Kalamazoo upbringing and carried that pride with him throughout his life. Oliver’s athletic journey began early, as he excelled in wrestling while attending Kalamazoo Central High School. Boxing would become one of the defining passions of his life, and his dedication, discipline, and skill led him to become a three-time Michigan Golden Gloves Champion and a respected competitor throughout his boxing career. His boxing continued into his service in the United States Army from January 1976, to August 1984, where he worked as a cook while also competing as a boxer. During his service, he earned recognition as V Corps and USAREUR Open Boxing Champion in 1978, and received a War Eagles Certificate of Achievement as an Army Specialist 4. His highest rank was SP5. While stationed in Germany, Oliver received multiple Certificates of Achievement, including recognition for meritorious service during training at Grafenwoehr/Hohenfels and for his work as a cook, significantly contributing to the morale and spirit of the soldiers he served alongside. He also learned to speak German fluently. Oliver’s accomplishments in both the ring and the military could often be found in publications such as the Kalamazoo Gazette, The Observer, and the Stuttgart Citizen in Germany, where he was also featured for organizing the “Mr. Athlete” contest. Obituary In 1979, he married Lynette Caridine from Chicago, IL and from that union came two of Oliver’s greatest joys, his daughters, Erica and Monica Lewis, and later, his beloved granddaughter, Jayla Lewis. He often expressed how proud he was of their accomplishments. Following his military service, he held memberships with the National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETS) and the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 241 of Chicago for Chicago Transit Authority employees. In 1987, he attended Malcolm X College in Chicago, where he earned a Certificate in Recognition of Law Enforcement and later trained fighters at the King Center in Milwaukee. He was also an accomplished poet. In 2010, he participated in the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition, continuing to share his voice through creative expression. In 2017, Oliver was ordained as a Deacon at Friendship Baptist Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. His faith and service to his church community became an important part of his later life, where he offered encouragement, presence, and support to others. Oliver was preceded in death by his parents, John "J.T." Lewis and Artie Mae Lewis; his sisters, Lorenza "Sister" Lewis, Ella Mae Coleman and Lori Ann Bell; and his brothers, Jessie Lewis and Clifton Lewis. He leaves to cherish his memory his brothers John (Phyllis) Lewis, James Lewis, Robert Lewis, Jerry Lewis, and Lance Pitts; his sisters Dorothy Lewis, Velma Lewis, Linda Nabors, Gloria Ivey-Ware (Dion), LaBrenda Jackson, and Tiffany Pitts; his daughters Dr. Erica Lewis and Monica Lewis; his granddaughter Jayla Lewis; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, fellow veterans, former athletes, students, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Oliver will be remembered for his strength, humor, creativity, resilience, and unwavering love for his family, all which created a legacy that will live on. Oliver did not lose his battle this battle, but rather his assignment here on Earth was complete.

Oliver Lewis

November 20, 1953 - June 13, 2026