Larry E. Lewis

Brandon, FL — Larry Edward Lewis, 80, of Brandon, FL, died Thursday, May 18, 2023 after a two-month struggle with a debilitating illness.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023 at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Brandon, FL. Flowers may be delivered to the church at 2913 John Moore Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran School in Brandon, FL in Larry's name.

Larry was born at home in O'Neill to Lae and Doris Lewis. He graduated from O'Neill High School in 1960. 

A year after graduation, he met and married Helen.

The following year he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

After serving more than 23 years in the Navy, Larry retired as a senior chief petty officer and enrolled in West Florida University under the GI bill. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in English and used his degree to volunteer in the university's writer's lab and to teach English in the Pensacola Junior College adult high school. He also worked as a substitute teacher in Escambia and Hillsborough Counties in Florida. Larry said he chose his college major because during his time in the Navy, he observed that many young sailors, including himself, were handicapped by their inability to communicate effectively.

Larry's favorite activities were golf, woodworking and listening to music. At times in his life he also enjoyed dancing, fishing and archery. He was a lifelong fan of the Nebraska Cornhusker's football team.

He was loved and will be missed very much.

Larry is survived by his wife of almost 62 years Helen; his three children Lance Lewis of Tennessee, Lori Rodriguez of Florida and Richard Lewis of Florida; three grandchildren Alex Rodriguez, Max Rodriguez and Sky Lewis; two sisters Patricia Plessel of O'Neill and Betty Nelson of Montrose, CO; and numerous other beloved family and friends including his daughters-in-law, son-in-law and multiple nieces and nephews.