Janell Elizabeth Grimes Lewis

Janell Elizabeth Grimes Lewis, age 85, quietly met her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with family alongside on January 19, 2024, at Abundant Christian Living Community (ACLC) in Johnson City, TN. 

Janell was born to the late Lida Nelle Carver Grimes and Emory Hallet Grimes, Sr. in Louisville, Kentucky.  She is also pre-deceased by a beloved son-in-law, Ty H. Osman, and treasured grandson, Ty H. Osman, II. 

Janell is survived by her husband and love of her life of nearly 65 years, J. Richard Lewis, and their three favorite daughters, Beth (Dale) Schreiner, Nancy Osman, and Susan Lewis. She adored her granddaughters, Adair (Brennan) McNeil, Breanne (Matt) Hoyt, Kendall Osman, and Lindsey McDowell. She cherished five great-grandchildren, Callahan Ty and Quinn Brennan McNeil, and Lindsey’s children, Shayla, Lydia, and Rory.  She is also survived by her brother, Emory H. Grimes, Jr. and several nieces and nephews.

Janell and Richard began dating when attending Southeastern Christian College in Winchester, Kentucky. Janell graduated with an Associate Degree in Music in 1958.  She and Richard married in 1959. 

Janell led a very full life as a dedicated wife and mother. Supporting Richard through many years of ministry and leadership was her greatest forte.  Over the years, she maintained a steady tempo managing rental properties she and Richard shared and working in numerous administrative support positions. She was a faithful member of the Locust St. Church of Christ teaching children about Jesus and hosting fellowships. In church camps and otherwise, she enjoyed developing/presenting devotional topics, leading small groups, creating a genre of party games, and entertaining loved ones. Whether playing (and teaching) piano or sharing her melodious soprano voice in both a cappella and secular settings, Janell’s love for music was evident. 

Along with her contagious laughter, her silly, yet competitive nature came out when playing cards and board games. She enthusiastically cheered for her children and grandchildren at ballgames and events. She enjoyed reading, nurturing flowers, and traveling. What Janell loved most was being with family and friends.

We are grateful for the compassionate care Janell received from staff at Christian Assisted Living, ACLC, and Gentiva Hospice. 

Please join the family on Saturday, January 27, 2024, for a celebration of life at 10:30 a.m. to be officiated by Dr. Barry Blackburn, and live streamed on the Morris-Baker website, on Janell’s obituary page. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m.  A brief graveside service will follow at the Monte Vista Memorial Park Mausoleum. If desired, memorial contributions may be sent to Portland Christian School, Tuition Assistance Program, 8509 Westport Rd., Louisville, KY 40242, or https://portlandchristian.org designated to Tuition Assistance Program.  Condolences may be shared at www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Lewis family. (423) 282-1521