Barbara Hurston Lewis

Barbara Hurston Lewis was born in Jackson, Tennessee, on February 20, 1931, to parents Robert Hezekiah Hurston and Katie Cloud. She passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, at the age of 94. Barbara was a remarkable woman known for her kindness, strength, and zest for life. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, demonstrating her dedication to learning and growth. In 1952, she married her beloved husband, Charles Lewis Jr., and together they shared 51 years of marriage until his passing on December 23, 2003. Their union was blessed with two daughters and two sons, and her family and loving dogs was always her greatest joy. Throughout her life, Barb’s love for animals was evident as she and her family showed German Shepherd dogs for nearly a decade. After retiring from her role as a finance and payroll manager at St. Louis Community College, she wholeheartedly embraced new challenges. At age 66, she began walking marathons, inspiring many with her perseverance. She completed her last half marathon at age 80, proving that age was just a number. Similar to her Great Aunt, Zora Neale Hurston; author and anthropologist, Barb caught the travel bug. She loved to travel either on her mystery trips, destination marathons or setting foot on six continents. Generous and compassionate, Barb and her family helped raise over $100,000 for leukemia and breast cancer charities, making a meaningful difference in the lives of many. Always active and lively, she even began exercising with kettlebells—always matching them to her outfit—and remained committed to staying fit well into her later years. Barbara leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her children Kathryn and Robert Lewis Jr., Cindy and Steven Lechner, Steven and Marilyn Lewis, and David and Karen Lewis. She also leaves seven grandchildren—Robert III, Jessica, Michele, Angela, David, Jacob, and Abigail—as well as great-grandchildren Kiara, Robert IV, Aubrey, Elijah, Quentin, Kalya, Felicity, Chelsea, Calvin, Zaide, Jack, Sophia, and Nicole. She is also survived by her nephew, cousins, and numerous friends who loved her dearly. A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Archway Memorial Chapel in Hazelwood on October 24 from 3-6pm (service @ 5). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a charity of your choice. Barbara’s warmth, kindness, and inspiring spirit will be dearly missed but forever remembered.

Barbara Hurston Lewis

February 20, 1931 - September 23, 2025