Yvonne R. Lewis

Obituary

Yvonne R. Lewis, age 73, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, surrounded by the love of the family she so fiercely cherished.

Born on April 24, 1953 in Pontiac, Michigan, Yvonne was the beloved daughter of the late Thomas Lewis, Jr.

Yvonne’s greatest legacy was her children. As a single mother raising her family in Southeast Washington, D.C., she poured everything she had into providing them with the best possible upbringing. It brought her immense pride to watch them rise above meek beginnings to grow into extremely successful adults. She was their biggest cheerleader and bragged about them every chance she got.

Her love for children extended far beyond her own home. Possessing a deeply nurturing heart, Yvonne served as a foster care provider and adoptive mother, offering a safe, loving haven for children in need. In 2004, she was named Washington D.C. Foster Parent of the Year. For 30 years, she also owned and operated a home daycare, touching and shaping the lives of countless children in her community.

Yvonne’s life was a true gift and to receive her love and laughter was an absolute joy. She possessed an infectious, out-loud laugh that could light up a room, often making others laugh just from hearing it. To those who knew her best, she will be fondly remembered for her sharp humor, quick sarcasm, and skillful ability to negotiate and charm others to get her way. She will be especially remembered for her special saying to her son about her grandchildren "kiss my kids”.

Though she was never a fan of flying—a fact she reminded her children of every time they tried to get her onto a plane—Yvonne proudly collected one perfect stamp in her passport during a memorable vacation to the Bahamas with her daughters and grandchildren. For the rest of her travels, she contentedly explored the world vicariously through the adventures of her children.

For the past ten years, Yvonne called Fayetteville home, living with her caring daughter who provided her with a beautiful sanctuary and unconditional love. Yvonne found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life: spending time with family and friends, tending to her garden, feeding the birds at the park, and playing cards.

Her last Christmas was a beautifully treasured time spent with her son during a 2 week-long staycation in Fayetteville. They simply shared quality time cooking, watching horror movies, and hearing stories about her grandchildren’s sports and activities. True to form, her final days were filled with happiness, smiles, and cracking jokes.

She is survived by her devoted daughters, Somonia Lewis and Tonya Yvonne Bazemore, and her loving son, Thomas Lewis Walker, Sr. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Ian Ugonna Wanke, Andre Jordan Wanke, Nicholas Thomas Wanke, Javon Lewis Roach, Alissa Nicole Walker, Thomas Lewis Walker Jr., Elijah James Walker, Chloe Simone Bazemore, and Chelsea Yvonne Bazemore. She leaves behind a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Yvonne’s laughter, strength, and vibrant spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her. We will continue to honor the life she lived!

Message of Thanks

The family of Yvonne Lewis wish to thanks for all of the help and expressions of love during our time of bereavement.