Michael Barry Lewis Sr., 83, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at home.
Known affectionately as “MB,” he was born on February 23, 1941, in Gaston County, N.C., to the late Robert Harrison Lewis Sr. and Evelyn Gilbert Lewis.
Mike was an active member of the community, serving as a Mason at Eastgate Lodge #692 and as a Shriner. His commitment to helping others was evident when the organization assisted his niece Tracy’s son Chance via The Shriner’s Children’s Hospital when he suffered a severe injury. Additionally, he took pride in being part of the Oasis Temple Patrol Color Guard for many years.
As a lifelong entrepreneur, he founded the MB Lewis Construction Company in Charlotte, starting with little more than his tools and work truck. His company went on to build countless mall stores across the Southeast. In the early 1990s, MB, along with Joyce, Barry, Mark, and Joanna, established Lew’s Fine Foods, which quickly became popular in the Mooresville community, a period he often described as one of the greatest times of his life.
He was an ardent supporter of the UNC Tar Heels, sharing this passion with his alumni sons, Barry and Mark. During the 1980s, weekends were spent with family on Lake Norman, boating and visiting friends. He also enjoyed golfing with the “Lew’s Lewsers” at Mallard Head Country Club.
His most cherished title was “Grandaddy Mike,” and his two grandsons, Joseph, and Zachary, brought immense joy to his life. The love he had for family defined his existence, and that legacy will endure in the hearts of the Lewis family for generations to come.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Lewis was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Ann Mundy Lewis; his son, Michael Barry Lewis Jr.; and his brother, Bob Lewis.
He leaves behind his son, Mark Lewis, and wife Joanna, as well as grandsons Joseph Lewis and Zachary Lewis. His niece, Tracy Lewis Moore, and husband Ken, along with nephew Bobby Lewis and wife Kathy, also survive him.
“I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from my fears…For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him.” (Psalm 34:4, 7)
The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 4, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, c/o Oasis Shriners, 604 Doug Mayes Place, Charlotte, NC 28262 or VIA Health Partners, PO Box 470408, Charlotte, NC 28226.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home & Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Lewis family. Condolences may be made to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.