Steven Ray Lewis was born in Okmulgee on May 24, 1957, the son of Preston Lewis, Sr. and Ernestine (Turner) Lewis.
Steven Ray grew up in Okmulgee, where he attended Okmulgee Public Schools, graduating from Okmulgee High School with the Class of 1975. Steven Ray then attended Connors State College before transferring to Central State University (now UCO), where he graduated with a Bachelor in Science and Physical Education.
Steven Ray was a member of St. Matthew’s Baptist Church in Okmulgee, under the leadership of Pastor McKinley Rice. When speaking of his church, he often said “there’s no place like home.” Steven Ray was a man who lived his life firm and strong in his beliefs, yet outgoing, funny and full of life. His loud, unforgettable laugh could fill any room and his presence was one that could never be ignored.
Mr. Lewis was a proud United States Army Veteran. He served two tours in Germany, where he developed his lifelong sense of discipline and purpose. That time shaped his outlook on life and instilled in him the values of honor, discipline, leadership and perseverance.
He was a standout athlete for Okmulgee, where he was an allstar basketball player. The Class of 1975, as all bulldogs do, remained close to his heart and the commitment “Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog!” Steven Ray would often drive from San Antonio to Oklahoma without hesitation to attend hometown and family events and stay connected to the people he loved.
As a proud Brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he lived by the fraternity’s principles of manhood, scholarship, perseverance and uplift. His bond with his Alamo City Que Bruhz was strong, deeply valued and everlasting. His brothers were an extension of his family.
Most importantly, Steve had a deep and unconditional love for his family – the Lewis family to be exact. He May 24, 1957 – October 18, 2025
found joy in their laughter, pride in their achievements and strength in their unity.
On Saturday morning, October 18, 2025, while surrounded by his children and his last living brother, Steven Ray Lewis, in his 68th year, surrendered his soul to Jesus. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Chadrick Jackson; and his siblings, Helen Figures, Herbert Lewis, Sr., Leonard Lewis, James Lewis, Linda K. Johnson, Kenneth Ray Lewis, Wilbert Lewis, Albert Lewis, Clarice Lewis, Pauline Brinkley, Sterling Lewis and Preston Lewis, Jr.
He leaves in God’s care his children, whom he loved and cherished, Kendall Smith, Sa’Quita Lewis, Tamra Lewis, Sheena (Andrae) Dozier and Spencer Lewis; his brother, Derrek (Lana) Lewis; his sisters, Lurlene Owens, Iretha (Bees) Rice and Cheryl (Ron) Harrison; his sisters in law, Sharon Lewis and Amanda Lewis; his brother in law, Leroy Brinkley; 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a caravan of other family members and special friends.
His laughter may be gone, but his spirit still echoes in our hearts. He lived fully, loved deeply and left behind memories that will last forever.
A service of memory for Mr. Lewis will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025, at High Noon in the most holy sanctuary of St. Matthew’s Missionary Baptist Church. The Pastor, Rev. McKinley Rice, will officiate. Burial will follow the service at Okmulgee Cemetery.
You may visit Mr. Lewis on Friday, October 31, 2025, between the hours of 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Keith D. Biglow Funeral Directors, Inc. of Okmulgee.
You may order flowers at 918-687-7574 or lakelandflorist.com.
