LaTanya Patricia Lewis

LaTanya Patricia Lewis was boron on Saturday, August 2, 1958 to John W. and Lela M. Lewis (Louis), both now deceased. She was the middle child of five. LaTanya went by many names...Tanya to family, Toni to friends and acquaintances, but the name she was truly most proud of was Abuelita (Spanish for Grandmother). LaTanya was a jolly, good natured baby and a inquisitive child! At the age of 5, she took the initiative to find out why a large crowd was gathering in front of the neighborhood grocery store. LaTanya managed to work her way to the front of the crowd and there stood Cassias Clay, who would later become known as Muhammed Ali. LaTanya probably had no idea of who he was, but he instantly took note of her, scooping her into his arms and planting a kiss on her cheek. She was the talk of the neighborhood as she got older...she treasured that special memory. From an early age LaTanya faced many obstacles, health related and otherwise but she didn't let that define her or stop her from being the best she could be. LaTanya attended nursing school and graduated in the top percent. We thought she might become a Chemist because of all the concoctions she would come up with. But her creativity didn't stop there, she was a poet and an artist. She would often write poetry for or about those she loved. When she was younger she would express herself through her artistry using paint and markers to create beautiful drawings and wall murals, later everything became fair game. She would decorate anything she could get her hands on! LaTanya was also a wonderful cook she specialized in Bar-B-Que, steak and cheese egg rolls. LaTanya lived the majority of her adult life in China Town and her food had a reputation of its own. LaTanya was generous often providing free or discounted meals to those who were in need. LaTanya was probably best known for her sense of humor! She could make you laugh even when she herself wasn't feeling her best. LaTanya made positive changes in her life and on July 10, 2010, she symbolized her dedication through water baptism becoming one of Jehovah's Witnesses. It's because of the love for Jehovah and his son Christ Jesus we have the hope of being reunited with her once again. But until that time she will be greatly missed by those she loved and who loved her in return. Ever the optimist, LaTanya fought long and hard but lost her fight on Thursday, July 30, 2015 at 4:42 a.m. when she fell asleep in death, with her loved ones by her side. LaTanya leaves to cherish her loving memories, her two sons, Ronnie D. Lewis (fiancé Kourtney) and Rr'Monnie D. Lewis; five precious grandchildren, Lela Marie, Ronnie Jr., Kaitlyn, Reason and baby girl Lewis due in October; siblings, John Lewis Jr. (Jeanette), Lennea Tyler, Lauren Lewis and Lisa (Jeffery) Lewis Jones; six nieces and nephews, Kenya, ShaCola (Roger), John III, Krystal (Shane), Raequel and Whitney; one uncle, LeDrew Smith (Jane); five aunts, Lillian McCafferty, Geneva Simms, Clotea Smith, Alice Harper (Charlie Sr.) and Margo Griffin; 21 great nieces and nephews; 8 great-great nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins and friends.

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LaTanya Patricia Lewis

August 2, 1958 - July 30, 2015