Robert "Bob" Preston Lewis, Sr.

Robert "Bob" Preston Lewis, Sr., age 85, passed away on July 8, 2025, at Piedmont Newnan Hospital. Born on September 5, 1939, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Preston Oliver Lewis and the late Jocelyn Mitchell Lewis. Bob was a man who persevered and remained steadfast in all his pursuits-a life marked not only by accomplishments, but by dedication to duty, family, and kindness. A proud graduate of Georgia Tech, Class of 1962, he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity and participated in the Naval ROTC program where he was the battalion commander. Upon graduation, Bob was commissioned into the U.S. Navy, where he served as a naval aviator with Attack Squadron 76 (VA-76), piloting the A-4 Skyhawk. Over the course of more than 200 combat missions during the Vietnam War, he demonstrated extraordinary skill and bravery, earning three Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Air Medals, three Navy Commendation Medals, a Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, and a Presidential Unit Citation. Notably, one of the aircraft he flew during his time with VA-76 is now displayed in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.-a permanent tribute to his service and skill. After his military service, Bob continued his career in aviation with Delta Air Lines, where he flew for 32 years. He was respected as a captain on the 727, 767, and MD-11 aircraft, admired not only for his precision and professionalism but also for his exceptional approach to customer service. Bob genuinely loved interacting with passengers and took pride in making their journey feel personal and pleasant-earning the trust of countless travelers who felt safer and more cared for with him at the helm. He retired as an international captain on the MD-11. Bob was a longtime, devoted Episcopalian. He worshipped at St. John's Episcopal Church in College Park, served as Building Chairman for St. Andrews in the Pines in Peachtree City, and held roles on the vestry and as treasurer of Holy Family Episcopal Church in Jasper. His faith was a guiding presence in his life, expressed through leadership, service, and heartfelt commitment to his church communities. A talented architectural designer and builder, Bob owned his own business and designed and built more than 100 homes in communities south of Atlanta and at Big Canoe. He also shared his knowledge as an architectural drafting instructor at Appalachian Technical College in Jasper, Georgia, teaching for two years. A champion of community service, Bob coached youth baseball for more than 10 years in Fayette County, served as treasurer of the Optimist Club in Jasper, chaired the Architectural Control Committee in Big Canoe, and participated in the VetConnect Program at Newnan High School-fostering mentorship and support for young people and veterans alike. Though his career took him across the globe, Bob's heart was grounded in family and the simple joys of life. As a child, he cherished summers spent in Mentone, Alabama, where he embraced the mountain air, carefree days, and a deep connection to the outdoors that stayed with him throughout his life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Delane McAllister Lewis; his children, Melissa (Harold) Louise Davis, Kimberly Ann Carter, Laura (David) Lewis McAlister, Robert (Pam) Preston Lewis, Jr., and William (Audra) Andrew Lewis; his brother, Henry Mitchell Lewis; stepdaughter Catherine Lorraine (Joe) Lane; 23 beloved grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. He will be remembered as a loving husband, proud father, doting grandfather and steadfast role model. His legacy of courage, wisdom, craftsmanship, and warmhearted service lives on in all who knew him. Memorial services for Bob will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.mckoon.com. The family requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Camp Laney for Boys Foundation, PO Box 289, Mentone, AL 35984. McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580

Robert "Bob" Preston Lewis, Sr.

September 5, 1939 - July 8, 2025