In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Life: Celebrating Beverly "Mousie" Lewis, 82 (1941-2024)

Beverly Lewis, affectionately known as "Ms. Beverly" or "Mousie" by those who knew and loved her, embarked on her extraordinary journey on October 12, 1941. Her vibrant spirit graced this world until February 3, 2024. Born to Mr. Oral Lee Elder and Mrs. Charlie Mae Helms Elder, Beverly was a beacon of light in her family as the eldest daughter.

Beverly's life was a tapestry of faith, community, and resilience. Her spiritual journey began early at Thankful Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia, under Reverend Leon Tucker's mentorship. Beverly's dedication to her faith was unwavering, which was evident in her active participation in numerous church groups like the Sunshine Band and Co-Ed Usher Board.

Her educational journey was as diverse as it was impressive. A proud graduate of Trinity High School in 1959, Beverly shone brightly in various clubs, from French to Dramatics, and even serenaded many as part of the Sugarettes singing group. Her accolades included titles that captured her essence: "The Shortest, Most Romantic & Sentimental, Best Looking, and Pleasing Personality."

Beverly's thirst for knowledge led her to Los Angeles City College, where she earned an associate degree in English. This was just the beginning of a career marked by dedication and excellence. She joined Pacific Bell Telephone as an Operator, rising through the ranks to become an Executive Management Analyst before retiring.

In 1968, Beverly's heart found its match in Herbert Raymond Lewis, Jr. Their union blessed them with a daughter, Tracy Yvette Lewis, and together, they ventured into entrepreneurship, opening Century 21- Herb Lewis & Associates in Decatur. Their business flourished, becoming one of Georgia's largest minority-owned enterprises and winning numerous accolades.

Beverly's journey took her to Fairmont, West Virginia, in 2012, bringing her closer to her family. Here, she continued to serve her community with the same passion, joining Mt. Zion Baptist Church and participating actively in its Hospitality Ministry, Pastor's Aide, Asst. Sunday School Teacher, Usher Board and Church Beautification.

Her commitment to service extended beyond the church walls. Beverly was the Past Worthy Matron #37 Eastern Star of Fairmont and a dedicated member of the "Faithful Thirteen" Women's group. Even in her later years, she contributed her skills as a Program Assistant at DAC and a Skills Developer and Job Coach at Pace Enterprises.

A loving family carries on Beverly's legacy: daughter Tracy Lewis-Evans, step-children Steven(Kristi), Caijsa, and Marcus Lewis(Trisha), granddaughter Mercedes Lewis (Nurik), grandson Brazz P. Evans IV, step-grandchildren,  Naomi, Anna, Samuel of Alaska and Julia, Mosaic, Avery  and Astrid of Georgia, great-granddaughter Deniza Beverly of London, sisters- Linda Elder Davis and Tommie Louise Barker of Georgia, sisters-in-law's Merylee Shelton, Charla Shelton and Leslie Elder of California; special cousins, Grand Bush and Equalin Murphy, nieces and nephews, Tara, Tibeius, Tyrannus, and Henry; and a host of relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband Herbert, son-in-law, Brazz P. Evans III, Granddaughter Corena Taylor Evans, mother-in-law Annie Mae Pitts, brother -in-law Judge Phrasel Shelton and Terry J. Davis, brothers Oral Lee Elder, Norris Elder(Cynthia), Eugene Santionio Elder(Gladys) and Lewis Clark; a sister, Evelyn Bailey (Barney).

Join us in celebrating Beverly's remarkable life on March 1, 2024, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Fairmont, WV. The visitation begins at 11:00 am, followed by a Home Going Celebration at noon. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery.

In her honor, contributions to benefit her grandchildren can be made to Wesbanco, 301 Adams St, Fairmont, WV. The account number ending in # 3339 in Beverly Lewis memory. A repass will follow the interment, with details to be announced.

The Lewis Family welcomes cards at P. O. Box 76, Fairmont, West Virginia 26554. Family and friends are requested to gather at Mt. Zion Baptist Church to remember and celebrate Beverly "Mousie" Lewis – a remarkable woman who touched many lives with her warmth, spirit, and enduring faith.