Our dear friend Lewie Ross died early on Friday morning, February 2, at his home in Berea, Ohio. It was a sudden, unexpected passing and, as people streamed through the door for his memorial service, grief was etched on every face. Lewie was highly respected and dearly loved. We feel his loss keenly.
Rather than assigning one or two people to speak about his life, the pastor opened the microphone to anyone with a story to tell about Lewie. One by one, they came forward to tell their stories – funny stories, touching stories, countless stories of Lewie’s lifelong generosity and servant’s heart.
As people lingered after the service, it seemed everyone in the room had a story to tell of the time Lewie helped fix something that was broken – whether it was a broken car or a broken heart. He was always available to those who needed him, never asking for anything in return. He did what he did without fanfare, without needing credit or attention. He did what he did because he was a follower of Jesus and wanted to live like Him.
Lewie and his wife Donna have been dear friends and faithful supporters of Ancient Path for the past twenty years. Their prayers and encouraging words have upheld us; their generous and sacrificial giving has enabled us to do what we do – to grow and dream and grow some more.
They also traveled to Malawi multiple times where Lewie found plenty of opportunities to fix broken things and even more opportunities to love. Showing the Father’s love was his specialty.
Whenever we talked with Lewie about the children of Malawi, his eyes always filled with tears. He considered it a privilege to partner with Ancient Path and the dedicated leaders in Malawi to feed and educate, empower and inspire, to love and disciple the next generation.
In a selfie-crazed culture that values self-promotion, Lewie was unique. He didn’t talk about himself; he didn’t stress over whether he was significant in the grand scheme of things. He just loved God and loved people and quietly left of trail of selfless acts that followed him to heaven.
Well done, good and faithful servant. We will miss you.
Please remember to pray for Donna, her son Josh, daughter-in-law Tanya, and all the family and friends left behind.
