William Lewis Obituary

William Thomas Lewis III CHARLESTON - William Thomas Lewis III, affectionately known as Tom, entered into eternal rest at home surrounded by his family on November 23, 2023, following a tough battle with pancreatic cancer. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM Thursday, November 30, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. The Rite of Committal will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery. Tom was born on June 26, 1957 in Richmond, Virginia, where his parents, William Thomas and Mary Katherine Murdock Lewis, began their young family before moving to South Carolina. Tom's Lowcountry life began on a family property in Goose Creek, where his love for the outdoors, animals and adventure led him to his forever way of life. A standout athlete at Bishop England High School, Tom earned a place on the Citadel football team before a knee injury led him back to the College of Charleston, where he used his athletic abilities to forge a place of influence. As Captain of an intramural team and an Alpha Tau Omega officer, he left an indelible mark, fostering lifelong friendships. Tom's competitive spirit propelled him into a successful career in sales management and leadership in the auto industry. From his early days in Kingstree, SC to a later role as a Southeastern regional leader in creative financing, Tom was known for his problem-solving prowess and an unwavering commitment to achieving exceptional results. Throughout his life, Tom acted with humility, dedicating himself to any service involving his children and greater community, including invigorating a winning athletic program at Divine Redeemer Catholic School as a coach and team dad. He passionately supported school fundraisers, booster programs and dance dad duty, showcasing his unyielding commitment to a "whatever it took" attitude. Yet, Tom's most cherished role was that of a loving husband to his high school sweetheart, Julie Garrett Lewis, as well as a devoted father and a doting grandfather. His heart swelled with pride at the smiles of his grandchildren, and he relished every moment spent with his family, no matter the circumstances. In reflecting on his life, Tom's legacy extends beyond his professional achievements. He leaves behind a tapestry of love, laughter and an unwavering dedication to those he held dear. He will be remembered by everyone as a guy who left too early. Despite the daily challenges with his painful cancer battle he demonstrated an unmatched persistence to find ways to be with those he loved just one more time. This relentless commitment spoke volumes about the depth of his heart. He will forever be remembered with gratitude and fondness. Tom is survived by his wife, Julie Garrett Lewis, his children, Tori, Taylor, Tanner, Michael and Ashley, as well as his loving grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Mary Kay Murdock Lewis, his sister, Deborah, K, Lewis and a brother, D. Glenn Lewis and his beloved nieces and nephews. In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating in his memory to either the Elk's Lodge Alzheimer's fund, Why Not Charleston http://www.whynotcharleston.com, or Bishop England High School https://BEHS.com. Arrangements by JAMES A. MCALISTER, INC. (843) 766-1365.