Mr. Winston Taylor Lewis Jr.

Winston T. Lewis Jr.—or as he would say, “Winston Lewis, The One and Only, There’ll Never Be Another Like Me”—departed his earthly home on Friday, February 28, 2025. A dedicated father, a proud grandfather, a truck driver, and a minister, he was a man of unwavering faith, boundless creativity, and deep devotion to his family and community. Born on September 13, 1966, to Rev. Winston T. Lewis Sr. and Doris J. (Matthews) Lewis, Winston grew up in the city of Detroit, MI, where his exceptional intellect was recognized early in his education. Identified as a gifted student with a high aptitude, he attended the prestigious Cass Technical High School—an honor he held dear—as a testament to his academic excellence and graduated in 1984. A hardworking and dedicated truck driver for over 20 years, Winston was also a man of ministry and service. From 1999 to 2001, he served as a minister at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission and as the New Life Men’s Recovery Program Director, offering guidance and faith to those in need, as well as being one of the few ministries allowed to hold weekly Sunday morning services under “The True Church” Ministry which he was Called to during the late 1990’s. In 2013, together with his then-wife, Sondra Lewis, he co-founded Kingdom United Ministries Network, leading numerous web broadcast ministries, including their most prominent flagship series, Dying to Be Married with Winston and Sondra Lewis. Through this platform and others, they provided wisdom and encouragement to countless listeners. Winston's love for music was a defining part of his life. His favorite artists included Earth, Wind & Fire, Incognito feat. Maysa, Al Jarreau, Rance Allen, and many others across multiple genres. A talented trumpet player, he performed in the Cass Tech High School Band and later in Western Michigan University’s marching band. His passion for creativity extended beyond music, as he found joy in storytelling, teaching, and uplifting others. He was also a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, always eagerly anticipating the next great season. Winston had a knack for lifting spirits with his humor. No matter how serious the conversation, he’d have you laughing by the end of it. One of his signature quirks was his talent for inventing words and playfully twisting pronunciations—“The Ambalampse,” “Use your brain-stain,” “Stanka Lankin’”—always leaving you with a one-of-a-kind phrase to remember. Always willing to take a risk and never afraid to try something new, Winston decided in 2002 to pursue his childhood dream of driving a semi-truck and worked toward obtaining his CDL through USA Trucking School in 2003. This achievement brought him great joy and a deep sense of accomplishment. This decision ultimately led him to over a decade of driving for B&B Trucking, a position that afforded him the opportunity to serve as President of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), a role he held with great honor. In 2013, Winston achieved a personal milestone by earning his Bachelor’s degree in Business, graduating magna cum laude from Western Michigan University—all while driving a truck full-time and providing for his family. This accomplishment stood as a testament to his perseverance and lifelong love of learning. In December 2024, Winston took a bold step toward fulfilling his longtime dream of starting his own trucking company. Alongside his business partner, Isaac Anderson, that dream became a reality—a milestone that brought him immense pride and fulfillment. Though his time with the company was brief, this achievement was a meaningful chapter of his life. His parents, Winston Taylor Lewis Sr. and Doris Jean Lewis, preceded him in death. Winston leaves to cherish his memory: his wife of over 30 years, Sondra L. Lewis, in honor of their shared journey, and their children: Michael Williams, Matthew Williams, Min. Winston Taylor Lewis III (Jaclyn), Quinton King Lewis (Tess), Clinton James Merriman Lewis, and Imani Elan Lewis. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Mataya, Mayella, Jazlene, Anello Williams, and Winston Taylor Lewis IV; two sisters, Sherronda (Arthur) Bowden and Yolanda Ringo; a niece, Holly Ringo; nephews, Dominic, Taylor Ringo, and Kahlil Bowden; and a maternal aunt and uncle, Brenda Roach and Larry Matthews. Additionally, Winston was honored to be part of a special group known as “The Matthew Men,” which included first cousins: Antonio (Leatrice), Andre (Tora), Anterrill (Candace), and Antoine McCoy, Steven (Zena) Smith, Robert Jr. (Rose), Derrick, and Corey (Tiffany) Bell, Lawrence Weaver, and Willie (Aira) Matthews. He also leaves behind his longtime friend Kenneth (Tracey) Lofton, his business partner and friend Isaac (Sabrina) Anderson, and a host of relatives and friends. Winston’s impact on his family, friends, and community will never be forgotten. His legacy of love, faith, and creativity will continue to inspire those who knew him. The family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love and support during this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in his memory.

Mr. Winston Taylor Lewis Jr.

September 13, 1966 - February 28, 2025