David Ray Lewis, 77, of New Brighton, passed away on September 13th, 2024 at Providence Care Center of Beaver Falls. He was born on March 14th, 1947 in Edinboro, the son of the late Donald and Gertrude (Wolfe) Lewis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Lewis. He is survived by his wife, Laura (Mugford) Lewis, children, Kate Lewis and Nicholas Lewis, and his cherished grandchildren, Astraea and Esmeray Lewis-Conn, who brought light into his life. He is also remembered by lifelong friends Raymond and Marie Sanner, with whom he shared countless memories and card games.

His life was a mix of love, laughter, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of family and friendship.

Dave and his beloved wife, Laura (Mugford) Lewis, first met in their younger years on a blind date set up by a family member and a mutual friend. While their first encounter didn’t lead to immediate fireworks, fate brought them together again years later. Laura knew Dave was “the one” because, as she liked to say, “he wore very nice shoes.” Whether or not that was truly the clincher, the story became a beloved part of their shared history. They were married on September 15, 1979, and though Dave passed away just two days shy of their 45th anniversary, the memories they created together will remain timeless.

As a husband, father, and friend, Dave was warm, fun-loving, and always ready for a good laugh—something he and Laura bonded over throughout their marriage. When he wasn’t busy coaching his son’s basketball team or leading Cub Scouts, Dave was happiest at home, tinkering away in his workshop. A self-taught carpenter and woodworker, Dave built decks, remodeled rooms, and completed home additions with the kind of attention to detail that could only come from someone who truly loved the craft.

Though his outside interests were few, Dave found simple joys in dining out, grilling at home, and playing a competitive hand of cards with Laura and their friends. For a few years, he even dabbled in cooking and proudly wore the hat of a skilled at-home culinary master, much to the delight of his family.

Dave had a long career in the transportation industry, spending many years with the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad. In 1986, he was honored to be included in the Who’s Who Club, though his humility meant he rarely mentioned it. He was a dedicated fan of Pittsburgh sports, cheering on the Steelers and Pirates through thick and thin (which, with Pittsburgh teams, often meant more thin). Doo Wop music brought him joy and sparked nostalgia, as its harmonies accompanied many of his fondest memories.

While his passing leaves a quiet space in the lives of those close to him, his legacy of love, laughter, and craftsmanship will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. A private family celebration of Dave’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.