Deacon McArthur Lewis

On December 7, 1942, in Forrest City, Arkansas, God blessed Jesse Lewis and Annie Posey Lewis with the birth of a son, McArthur Lewis. After a life richly blessed by God’s grace and favor, he peacefully answered his Master’s call on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at his home in Forrest City, Arkansas, surrounded by the love of his family. Deacon Lewis was a man of unwavering faith, quiet strength, and humble service. At an early age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at New Hebron Missionary Baptist Church. There, he faithfully served as a Deacon for many years, exemplifying Christian leadership, compassion, and dedication to God’s people. Later in life, he united with United Christian Missionary Baptist Church, where he continued his faithful service as a Deacon until his health no longer permitted. He loved the Lord and believed that a life of prayer, service, and obedience to God was one of life’s highest callings. McArthur was educated in the Forrest City Public School System and was a proud member of the Lincoln High School Class of 1964. He remained proud of his classmates and the legacy of Lincoln High School throughout his life. A proud patriot, McArthur honorably served his country in the United States Army. He entered active military service on February 14, 1966, and faithfully served until receiving an Honorable Discharge on March 11, 1969. During his military tenure, he attained the rank of Specialist Four (E-4) and served as a Radio Operator. His service included an overseas tour in Germany, where he proudly represented his country. Among his military honors were the National Defense Service Medal and recognition as an Expert Marksman with the M-14 Rifle and M-50 Machine Gun. The discipline, commitment, and integrity he displayed during his military service remained evident throughout his life. These qualities shaped him into the respected husband, father, deacon, employee, and community member that so many admired. Following his military service, McArthur returned home and built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. He was employed for many years at Sanyo Manufacturing, where he earned the respect of his coworkers through his dependability and strong work ethic. Later, he devoted himself to serving others as a teacher and transportation employee with the St. Francis Area Developmental Center. He approached every responsibility with diligence, professionalism, and a servant’s heart. Outside of work and church, McArthur found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors. Whether sharing stories with friends, enjoying fellowship with loved ones, or simply appreciating God’s creation, he found happiness in life’s meaningful moments. He was known for his wisdom, calm demeanor, and steady presence. To his family, he was a source of strength, guidance, and unconditional love. On May 3, 1966, he was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Mildred Thompson Lewis. Together they built a loving home founded on faith, commitment, and mutual respect. Their marriage endured for more than sixty years and served as a beautiful example of devotion and partnership. Through life’s joys and challenges, they remained steadfast companions and each other’s greatest source of encouragement. Deacon Lewis leaves to cherish his precious memory his beloved wife, Mildred Thompson Lewis; three sons, Ronnie (Gloria) Lewis, Everette Lewis, and Christopher (Brittney) Lewis; two grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and dear friends who will forever treasure the love, wisdom, guidance, and example he leaves behind. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Lewis and Annie Posey Lewis; his son, Garnet Lewis; six sisters, Dora Lee Johnson, Jessie May Mosby, Odine McNeal, Sarah Sneed, Bernice Rogers, and Irine Byndom; and six brothers, Lester Lewis, Marcus Lewis, James Lewis, Roosevelt Lewis, William E. Lewis, and Sammy F. Lewis. Though his earthly journey has ended, Deacon McArthur Lewis leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, humility, service, and love. His life reflected the teachings of Christ through his dedication to family, church, country, and community. He walked by faith, served faithfully, loved deeply, and finished his race with dignity. While he will be greatly missed, his family rejoices in knowing that he has exchanged labor for reward and now rests peacefully in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Deacon McArthur Lewis

December 7, 1942 - June 11, 2026