Memphis mourns the loss of a beloved and influential figure, Sara L. Lewis, who passed away on January 22, 2024. Her departure marks the end of a significant era in Memphis’s educational and community landscape.
“Today we lost my beloved grandmother, Sara L. Lewis,” wrote DeAara Lewis, Sara’s granddaughter, on Facebook. “Her passing signifies the end of an era in our family and the City of Memphis, a city she deeply loved. We are asking for privacy during this challenging time and appreciate your understanding and support.”
Lewis, a retired member of the Memphis City School Board, was a fierce advocate for equity and educational excellence. Her commitment to these ideals was unwavering, as reflected in her own words from 2003.
“Look at where my focus has been. It’s been on children, on minority affairs, and equity issues, on standards,” Lewis said at the time. “It’s been on the things that need to come about to make Memphis City Schools a better school system.”
State Rep. Raumesh Akbari shared a lighthearted video of Lewis reminding someone of just how outspoken she was.
On social media, Memphis Shelby County Schools said Lewis “fought fiercely for equity and educational excellence. May the bright light of her legacy guide us to build the Memphis our children deserve.”
Lewis was instrumental in bringing WQOX-FM 88.5 on the air, as well as C19TV, both broadcast arms of the school district over the years, said station manager and radio personality John Best.
“It is because of her efforts and her colleagues that we have 88.5FM and C19TV and the Broadcast Program,” Best wrote on Facebook “She was always on point and knew this school district like the back of her hand. Rest well, Queen Mother!”
Lewis’s legacy in Memphis is profound. She was more than an educator; she was a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for the underprivileged. Her life’s work centered on creating a better future for the children of Memphis, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by N. J. Ford And Sons Funeral Home, Inc. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to local educational charities, continuing Sara’s lifelong mission of supporting education for all.
Sara L. Lewis’s life was a testament to her belief in the power of education and community. Her contributions have shaped the educational landscape of Memphis, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide.
