Lorene Chipman Lewis

Lorene Chipman Lewis, 95, formerly of Coldspring, Texas, passed away October 5, 2019 in Gallipolis, Ohio. Lorene was born to the late Herbert and Blanche Chipman on March 7, 1924 in Mooringsport, Louisiana. She grew up in Oil City, Louisiana and was, along with her three sisters, one of the Belles of Oil City. Lorene attended and graduated from Oil City High School where she played in the band. Lorene met the love of her life Patrick (Pat) Benson Lewis during her freshman year. Lorene married Pat on April 1, 1943 while he was active in the Army Air Corps. Lorene was a strong supporter of Pat’s military service and followed him to Nebraska, Arizona and California. Lorene was often on her own working and raising children while Pat was deployed overseas during World War II and the Korean Conflict. Lorene was the quintessential officer’s wife hosting gatherings and participating in military fund raising activities. Throughout their time together in the military Lorene and Pat made many lifelong friends. Upon Pat’s retirement from the Air Force Lorene once again moved, this time to Houston, Texas. Together Lorene and Pat owned and operated Kay Tee Florist. Lorene was the manager of the florist for 25 years. While in Houston Lorene and Pat discovered Cape Royale outside Coldspring, Texas and purchased a weekend home. Lorene commuted to the lake and continued to manage the florist for several years after Pat retired. Lorene became an avid, albeit fast playing, golfer and top notch bridge player. She also quickly became known as a fabulous hostess. Lorene was a wonderful cook and throughout the years shared many recipes with others. It was rumored however that she always left out an important ingredient so the shared recipe was never as delicious as Lorene’s version. Or maybe she just knew how much a pinch was and how long stir consistently meant. Lorene retired from the florist in 1990 and moved to Cape Royale permanently. Together in retirement Lorene and Pat played golf, visited family and friends, entertained at home, traveled and volunteered in their church and community. Lorene was a member of the Coldspring First Baptist Church and most recently attended Gallipolis First Presbyterian Church. Three children called Lorene mother. Chuck (who preceded her in death), Diane (Sara) and Jere (the late Brenda). Two granddaughters lovingly called Lorene grandmother. Michelle Lewis Czulada (Kelly) and Sara Lewis Novak (Justin). Five greatgrandchildren, Sydney Czulada, Kevin Czulada, Sophia Marino, Emma Marino and Logan Novak survive “Great Grandmother.” Lorene is also survived by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Cade and Mary Sydney Nelms, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Sheila and Ron Bourbeau, many beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Lorene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Pat and son Chuck. In addition to her parents, husband and son, three sisters, the Belles of Oil City, preceded Lorene in death, Lillian Pinckard, Evelyn Greer and Billy Jean Bass. A memorial service to celebrate Lorene’s life will be held at the Coldspring First Baptist Church on Saturday, November 2 at 1:00 PM. Layperson Dalton Currie will preside. A time of fellowship will follow the service. In lieu of flowers please consider making a contribution to the Coldspring First Baptist Church (100 Pine Street, Coldspring, Texas 77331), the Gallipolis First Presbyterian Church (51 State Street, Gallipolis, Ohio 45631) or a cause dear to your heart. “…Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of the Lord.” Matthew 25:23 Please visit www.willisfuneralhome.com to send e-mail condolences.