MARGARET HELEN LEWIS (nee Geer), a beloved matriarch and spirited soul, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025, at the age of 95. Born on December 14, 1929, in White County, Tennessee, Margaret's journey through life was marked by her resilience, love, and devotion to her family.
From a young age, Margaret showcased remarkable strength, stepping into the role of caregiver for her younger siblings after her mother's early passing. This nurturing spirit followed her throughout her life, as she became a mother figure not just to her family but to many who were fortunate enough to know her. In 1948, she married the love of her life, Robert Lewis, with whom she shared 76 wonderful years of marriage, built on a foundation of mutual respect and unwavering love.
Margaret's no-nonsense approach to family life was matched only by her fierce love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She poured her heart into nurturing her family, ensuring they grew up with the values she held dear. Her playful admonishments included chasing her grandchildren with a paddle, all in the name of maintaining order and instilling discipline, although it was always accompanied by a twinkle in her eye that radiated her deep affection for them.
Margaret found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her favorite pastime was leaf-looking during the autumn season, where she marveled at the beauty of nature. Following her excursions, she frequently indulged in a sweet trip to The Creamery for her favorite banana split, bringing joy not only to her own heart but to those she shared these moments with.
A remarkable cook, she was known for her delectable chicken and dumplings and cherished banana pudding, which her family continues to enjoy as a comforting reminder of her love. Her Southern charm and lingo left a lasting impression on her grandchildren, so much so that one of her grandsons once caused a concerning chuckle among his teachers by saying he was "fixin' to go to the bathroom."
Margaret was a devoted Christian, and in her later years, found solace and joy in reading the Bible. Her commitment to providing for her family, even as her age advanced, was a testament to her unwavering spirit and love.
Margaret will be laid to rest with love and reverence, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and cherished memories that will forever live in the hearts of her family and friends.
Margaret was the beloved wife of Robert D. Lewis for 76 years; loving mother of Gary D. (Donna) Lewis and Sharon K. (Robert) Conrad; dearest grandmother of Erik (Marie) Lewis, Robert J. Lewis, Allison (Timothy) Thiele, Danielle Conrad and Jonathan Conrad; great grandmother of Jaden, Jimmy, Bobby, Zachary, Logan, Aiden, Sophia, Bryce, Robbie, Kaylynn and Carter; devoted daughter of the late Martha Rhea (nee McCann) and the late James Geer; predeceased by her seven siblings; dearly loved by her many nieces and nephews.
Visitation Friday, March 28, 2025, 3-8 p.m. at Zarzycki Manor Chapels, Ltd., 8999 S. Archer Ave., Willow Springs. Funeral Service, Saturday,March 29, 2025 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Illinois.