Rev. Charles Lewis

Rev. Charles "Burnell" Lewis, age 94 years, passed away Wednesday, June 15, 2011, at The Baptist Home in Ironton, Missouri. He was born November 5, 1916, near Piedmont, Missouri, the son of the late Rev. Tony Lewis and Nettie Allen Lewis. On December 26, 1974, he married Margie Lewis of Jefferson City, Missouri, who preceded him in death on March 29, 2009. Burnell graduated from Dexter High School and attended Southwest Baptist University, Washington University and Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. In his later years Burnell received an honorary doctorate from Southwest Baptist University. Burnell served as a pastor and evangelist for nearly 60 years. His charming personality, witty storytelling and expansive knowledge of history made him a favorite preacher among many. Burnell spoke in churches throughout the United States and Europe during his years of service. He was a preacher in Russia with the Billy Graham Crusade. After his retirement Burnell enjoyed the fellowship of the Providence Baptist Church in New Bloomfield, Missouri. Burnell was also an avid golfer who enjoyed the sport around the world. He golfed regularly until the age of 90 and enjoyed many afternoons on his home course at the Jefferson City Country Club. Burnell's survivors include his nephews, Robert and William Lewis of Fort Worth, Texas; and his family by marriage including Larry Berry and Nicole Sublett of Jefferson City, Missouri; Lauran, Charles and Jonathan Stokes of Atlanta, Georgia; Matthew and Joshua Stokes of Brooklyn, New York; and Stacey and Jason Estes of Kansas City, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margie Lewis, and her children: Dana Berry and Jay Bob Estes of Jefferson City, Missouri; and his brother, Douglas Lewis. A memorial service will be held at Providence Baptist Church in New Bloomfield, Missouri, on July 10, 2011, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor J. Shaver officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Providence Baptist Church, 426 Glenwood Drive, New Bloomfield, Missouri; or Hospice of Mid-America, 412 Cayce Street, Farmington, Missouri.