Monsignor Gerald Lawrence Lewis

RALEIGH - Monsignor Gerald Lawrence Lewis, a priest of the Diocese of Raleigh for 63 years, died Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, at his home in Raleigh. He was 92.

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, he served in the U.S. Navy Hospital Corps. He was ordained to the priesthood May 11, 1961, at St. Mary Church in Goldsboro.

During his tenure in the diocese, he served as pastor of more than seven parishes, including St. Raphael the Archangel, where he served from 1978 until 1989. He was chancellor from 1973 until 1978 and vicar general from 1992 until 2002. He retired from active ministry in 2002 but continued to offer service in many roles such as diocesan archivist. Known for his pastoral nature and ability to share stories rich with details, he had a long memory of North Carolina and its people.

During a 2021 Mass to celebrate his 60th anniversary to the priesthood, he said, “Just as I preach to you, you preach to me in so many ways. Just as I strive to care for you, you care and provide for me. We are a family, together. I celebrate the priesthood here tonight, but not alone.”

The Lewis Award, honoring Catholic school educators in the diocese, was initiated in 1992 in his honor. In 2002 he received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, for his significant contributions to the state.

Please include among your intentions, especially at Mass, the repose of the soul of Monsignor Lewis and the comfort of all who mourn his death.

Funeral Arrangements

Vigil - Thursday, Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Raphael the Archangel Church in Raleigh with Father Michael Burbeck presiding.

Viewing and Visitation - Thursday, Dec. 19 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. at St. Raphael the Archangel Church in Raleigh. Light refreshments will be available.

Funeral Mass - Friday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh with Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama presiding and Father Chris Koehn as homilist. Burial to follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery in Newton Grove.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Monsignor Lewis' memory to The Lewis Award by visiting www.lewisaward.org/donate or by mail to The Lewis Award, Catholic Schools Office, 7200 Stonehenge Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613.

Funeral arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com