lewisJames Walton Lewis, loving husband, father and PawPaw, went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on Thursday, May 9, 2013.

Funeral services are under the direction of Heartland Funeral Home in Early, Texas, and his service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, May 11, at Salt Creek Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the Salt Creek Cemetery. The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral Home.

Mr. Lewis passed away Thursday, May 9, 2013, at his home.

James was born Nov. 27, 1933, in Brown County, to O.E. and Sally Lewis who preceded him in death. He was married to the only love of his life, Linda Joy Ehrke (Lewis) on Aug. 7, 1952, and they recently celebrated 60 years of blessed marriage.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; his son, Mike Lewis and wife Judy Ruth of Burnet; his daughter, Judy Layton and her husband Kent of Quinlan; his son, Matt Lewis and wife Charlotte of San Angelo; and daughter, Kerry Lilley of Early; grandchildren, Chuck Murphy, Brice Waterman, Cody Lilley, Jameson Lewis, Carson Lewis, Luke Lewis, Lauren Layton, Samantha Lewis; and great-granddaughter, Addison Murphy. James is survived by his brother, C.E. Lewis and wife Faye of Fort Worth; brother-in-law, Jack Ehrke and wife Ganelle of Salt Creek; and numerous nieces and nephews. James worked for 39 years with Texas Power and Light, (TU Electric/Oncor) in numerous positions including District Engineer and Customer Service Manager. He served on the Economic Development Corporation of Early, later serving on city council then as Mayor of Early throughout the 90’s. He was a long-time member of the Brownwood Kiwanis Club, serving as President, and was deacon of Salt Creek Baptist Church for over 40 years. “Daddy” loved tinkering and trying to always “fix” anything that needed fixing. He was an accomplished wood worker, wood whittler, enjoyed trout fishing hunting, and the many family camping trips. He also loved the Lord, teaching Sunday school at his church and he loved to sing. James loved all his children and grandchildren in his own unique special way. His smile was contagious and he loved to “pick at” most everyone he would meet and try to get a smile, and tell a witty tale. The family wishes to thank Dr. Chris Stephens and the Lighthouse Hospice for all their special care and requests any memorial donations be made to your favorite charity in memory of this great man.

Friends are invited to sign the guest book at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net.