Willie “W.D.” Douglas Lewis

Willie D. Lewis, affectionately known as “W.D.,” was born on November 7, 1938, and peacefully passed away of natural causes on November 4, 2025,in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the age of 86. After a life of dedication, service, and love, he has now entered into eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He was born in Mangham, Louisiana, to the union of Samuel and Annie Mae Lewis, and lovingly raised in Maringouin, Louisiana. As the eldest of three brothers, Willie embraced his role as a leader and protector within his family, sharing a lifelong bond with his brothers Edward Lewis and the late Ivory Lewis.

Willie attended Rosenwald High School in New Roads, Louisiana before continuing his education at Southern University and A&M College, where he met the love of his life, Tharis.

He was the devoted husband of Tharis Ennis Lewis and the proud father of Chenese Lewis, his pride and joy, who both lovingly cared for him throughout his later years. His life was deeply enriched by the love of his family, which he considered his greatest blessing. Willie and Tharis shared a remarkable marriage of 51 years.

Willie’s commitment to family was evident in his support of his relatives’ education. He took great pride in helping to fund the college tuition of several family members, ensuring they had opportunities to achieve their dreams and build a strong foundation for their futures.

A proud U.S. Army Veteran, Willie honorably served his country during the Vietnam War and received both the Army Good Conduct Medal (AGCM)and the Marksman Rifle Award for his exemplary service and precision skills. Following his military service, he began a successful career at The Shell Geismar Chemical Plant, where he worked for more than 20 years before retiring. Not one to slow down, Willie embarked on a second career as an administrator with the East Baton Rouge Parish Clerk of Court, where he earned his certification as a Deputy Clerk in 1995. During his tenure, he also engaged in lobbying efforts at the Louisiana State Capitol,advocating for legislative updates related to Clerk of Court operations. He served with distinction and dedication for two decades before retiring a second time.

Willie’s commitment to civic engagement and community leadership was evident throughout his life. He became deeply involved in politics and community activism, holding numerous leadership roles. He served as President of the Scotlandville Jaycees from 1975–1976. On the state level, he was elected Regional Vice President from 1976–1977, earning numerous awards on the local, state, and national levels for his outstanding service.

A devoted Republican, Willie was passionate about community involvement and the political process. Over the years, he actively served in numerous political campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels, offering his time, insight, and organizational skills to help elect candidates who shared his values and vision for a stronger Louisiana. Known for his sharp political acumen and dedication to public service, Willie built strong relationships with elected officials and community leaders across the state.

In recognition of his leadership and commitment to serving others, Willie was appointed to the Louisiana Executive Board on Aging (LEBA) in 1997 by former State Senate President Randy Ewing. LEBA is an advisory board within the Governor's Office of Elderly Affairs (GOEA), guiding policy and programs that benefit Louisiana’s senior citizens. His reappointment in 2003 by former State Senate President John J. Hainkel, Jr. reflected the deep respect he earned for his tireless advocacy and dedication. Over nearly 30 years of service, Willie championed initiatives that enhanced the quality of life, expanded access to vital resources, and upheld the dignity of older adults across the state.

Willie’s lifelong dedication to service and community leadership earned him numerous honors throughout the years. He received the Kiwanian of the Year Award from the Kiwanis Club of Denham Springs–West Livingstonin 2001, and in 2012, he was recognized by Project R.I.D.E. and the Louisiana Business and Community Alliance for more than 40 years of outstanding contributions to the Greater Baton Rouge community.

A faithful member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Willie served as President of the Board of Trustees from 2014–2015. Under his leadership, the church launched its media ministry to live-stream services — a milestone that continues to bless the congregation today.

In his later years, Willie embraced entrepreneurship and founded W.D. Lewis, Inc., reflecting his lifelong work ethic and drive to create opportunities.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Tharis Ennis Lewis; devoted daughter, Chenese Lewis; brother, Edward Lewis of Maringouin, LA; sister-in-law Lillian Ennis Robinson; brother-in-law Rev. Emile Ennis, Sr. (Sharon); nephews Anthony H. Johnson (Karen) of New Roads, LA; Robert Robinson, and Emile Ennis, Jr. of Los Angeles,CA; nieces Carolyn Lewis of Maringouin,LA and Shawn Jenkins of Beaumont, TX; two goddaughters, Kymberli Durden of Covington, GA, and Felicia Brumfield Gathe of Zachary, LA; and a host of cousins, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Annie Mae Lewis; brother Ivory Lewis; father- and mother-in-law Rev. Ameal D. Ennis and Lettie W. Ennis; and brother-in-law Burrel Robinson.

Willie D. Lewis leaves behind a legacy defined by faith, service, and leadership. His tireless dedication to family, community, and country, combined with his principles and compassion for others, touched countless lives and will continue to inspire all who knew him. Through his example, he taught the value of integrity, hard work, and giving back, ensuring that his impact on the Greater Baton Rouge community and beyond will be felt for generations to come.

Visitation will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church, 544 Government Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., followed by Funeral Services at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Greenoaks Memory Park Mausoleum, 9595 Florida Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.