With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Willie James Lewis, Sr., 74, of Hemingway, SC, husband of Annie C. Lewis and retired logger, who passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Life Reflections

For I now am ready to be offered and the time of my departure is at hand, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, Henceforth, therefore, there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord the Righteous, Judge shall give me at that day.   II Timothy 4:7-8

Willie James Lewis, Sr. was born June 11, 1951, to the late Dorothy Gibson Lewis and the late Wilson Lewis. On Thursday, February 5, 2026, he departed his earthly life at the age of 74. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, Si Junior Lewis and Mary Helen Lewis.

Willie James Lewis, Sr. was educated in the public schools of Williamsburg County. At a young age, he joined Bethlehem AME Church where he served as a Trustee, Male Choir Member and Financial Officer.

He was employed at Wellman Industries, Johnsonville High School and a logger by trade. Willie, better known as "Sampson", never met a stranger regardless of where he went.

He entered Holy Matrimony to Annie Catherine Wilson. God blessed this union with four children.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories, his wife of  52 years, Annie Catherine Wilson; four devoted children, Debra (George) McKnight of Hemingway, SC, Jerry (Alfreda) Lewis of Conway, SC, Tracy (Paul) Glover of Georgetown, SC and Willie James Terry (Pauline) Lewis of Columbia, SC; two sisters, Betty Mention of Hemingway, SC and Virginia Ann Armour of New York; four brothers, Cephus (Diane) Lewis, Louie (Vera) Lewis, and Solomon (Donna) Lewis all of Hemingway, SC and Donald Ray Wilson of New York; two brothers-in-law, Willie Joe (Patricia) Wilson of Johnsonville, SC and Charles Wilson of Hemingway, SC; three sisters-in-law, Mildred Wilson of Hemingway, SC, Dianna (John) McGill, of Lake City, SC and Karen Wilson of Hemingway, SC; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family is receiving friends and family at 1436 Willard Loop, Hemingway, SC.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Lake City, SC. 843-354-2292.