Christopher Llewellyn Lewis

Christopher was preceded in death by his parents, Michael Elliott Lewis and Anne Kelly Lewis, and his brother, John Lewis. He is survived by his children, Janine Smith, Ian Lewis (Lori), and Neill Lewis (Allison); five grandchildren, Melanie, Katherine, Arthur, Thomas, and Robert "Eli"; his brothers, Michael Lewis and Timothy Lewis of Ontario, Canada; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Christopher was born on December 26, 1952—Boxing Day—in Mackenzie, British Guyana (now Guyana). He spent his childhood in St. Ann's, Jamaica, before moving to Richmond, Virginia, in 1970. He attended his senior year at J.R. Tucker High School and graduated with the Class of 1971. He continued his education at Eastern Shore Community College, graduating in 1973, and earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Virginia Tech in 1976. He later became a naturalized United States citizen in February 1987 and went on to earn his Master of Business Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1994.

On May 21, 1976, Christopher married Joy Mabe. Together they raised their three children in Richmond and shared 27 years of marriage. Joy’s extended family became Christopher’s family forming close connections and bonds.

Following graduation from Virginia Tech, Christopher began his career with the Chesterfield County Department of Utilities as an accountant. Christopher retired after 30 years, having formed many lifelong friendships. Retirement allowed him to pursue traveling and spending more time in New Orleans, a city he dearly loved. He divided his time between New Orleans and Richmond, creating lasting friendships in both places.

Christopher appreciated life's simple pleasures. He loved meaningful conversations over a glass of wine, was an avid reader, and had a lifelong passion for music and art. Whether singing in the boys’ choir as a child, listening to classical, jazz, or reggae, music was always part of his life. He had a remarkable appreciation for art, carefully curating a collection in which every piece held a story and a special memory.

As a father, Christopher coached his sons' soccer teams, enjoyed family time camping at Sherando Lake, trips to the beach, visiting his family each year in Canada, and simple Friday nights at Shada’s house. He was proud of each of his children’s accomplishments in life, bragging to his friends wherever he was. In his later years, his greatest joy came from spending time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed fresh flowers and strawberry ice cream.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Christopher's life on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at O'Toole's Restaurant on Forest Hill Avenue in Richmond. Guests are encouraged to come prepared to share stories, laughter, and memories in the spirit Christopher would have appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Richmond or another Alzheimer's organization of your choice, in honor of Christopher and the many families affected by Alzheimer's disease.