Ronald “Ronnie” Clebert Lewis, a respected husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on December 31, 2023, at his home in Centerville, TN. Born on May 18, 1947, in Franklin, TN, to the late Clebert and Evelyn Harrell Lewis, Ronnie’s life was marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, and a strong work ethic.

Ronnie’s journey alongside his beloved wife, Jennifer Lewis, spanned 57 beautiful years. Together they raised 2 children, Trent (Krissy) Lewis and Nicki Lewis. He was a proud grandfather to Kelsie (Christian) Peery, Jenna Tompkins, and Greer Lewis, and he was overjoyed to be a great-grandfather to Ellis Peery. He is also survived by his brother Noel Lewis and sister Gloria Lunn. He shared a very special friendship with Dee Cee Neeley, who happened to pass away just one day before Mr. Lewis.

A proud US Navy Veteran, Ronnie served three tours in Vietnam aboard the USS Hancock aircraft carrier as an ordinance and flight deck operator. His dedication and skill earned him numerous commendations and the rank of A02, the highest attainable in his four-year tenure.

After his military service, Ronnie embarked on a successful career in the paper industry. He worked for Cordage Paper for 26 years and later joined Athens Paper as a commissioned salesman. His dedication and skill earned him the Top Salesman award on numerous occasions. Ronnie’s work ethic was unparalleled; he always gave 110% and never knew the word “stop.” Even after a fulfilling career in sales, he chose to serve his community further by driving a school bus for 10 years.

Ronnie’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He served as an elder at Salem Church of Christ for many years, and later as a deacon at Pineview Church of Christ. Also serving the church in many different aspects from leading prayer to teaching Bible classes.

An avid lover of the outdoors, Ronnie’s passions included horses, motorcycles, hunting, and fishing. These activities brought him immense pleasure and provided cherished moments with family and friends. His zest for life and love for the natural world were infectious, inspiring those around him to appreciate the simple joys of life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be mailed to the Palestine Cemetery Fund at 472 Claude Carroll Rd, Hohenwald, TN 38462, or directly at any Regions Bank.

Visitation with the family will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at McDonald Funeral Home in Hohenwald, TN from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024 at McDonald Funeral Home in Hohenwald, TN at 11:00 AM, with visitation 1 hour before service time.  Military honors and burial will follow in the Palestine Cemetery, Hohenwald, TN. 

McDonald Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Lewis family.