James "Wood Rat" Matthew Lewis
September 11, 1937 - February 9, 2020

Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home 943 Highway 425 North Monticello, AR 71655 Map & Directions Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home 943 Highway 425 North Monticello ,  AR 71657 2/14/2020 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Map & Directions Funeral Service Stephenson-Dearman Chapel 943 Hwy 425 N. Monticello ,  AR 71655 2/15/2020 2:30 p.m. Map & Directions   Bethel Cemetery Stafford Rd Wilmar, AR 71675 Map & Directions

Bro. James Matthew Lewis was the oldest of five children born to the late Jim and Willie Mae McCray-Lewis in Wilmar, AR, on September 11, 1937. He made his earthly transition on February 9, 2020, at Baptist Medical Center in Little Rock, AR.

James was well known by many family and friends by his nickname, “Rat”. During his formative years, he attended Drew High School. He confessed his hope in Christ and joined St. James AME Church in Wilmar and later in life, he rededicated his life to Christ and united with Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. He served faithfully on the praise team and made himself available wherever he was needed until his health failed.

James worked in the logging business all his life. He was married to Erma June Lewis on May 9, 1959 and was a dedicated husband until the Lord called her home on August 24, 2013. Other than his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Frank, Tolliver and Alice and a grandson, Derrick Lewis.

He leaves to cherish his memories: six sons, James G. (Marilyn) Lewis, Frank (Anita) Lewis, Allen (Kimberly) Lewis, Ross (Angela) Lewis, Rodney (Ordennie) Lewis, and Edward (Kyla) Lewis; one brother, William (Andra) Lewis; 15 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends that will miss him dearly.

Funeral Service will be Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery in Wilmar. Visitation will be 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday night at the funeral home. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.