Robert "Kurtis" Lewis, Jr.

Robert “Kurtis” Lewis, Jr., a cherished and devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in Sumter, South Carolina. Born on July 12, 1973, in Sumter, he was the beloved son of Joyce Lewis Wright and the late Robert Harvin. Throughout his life, Kurtis was a pillar of strength and love within his family and community.

Kurtis was raised and educated in the public schools of Sumter County, where he proudly graduated from Hillcrest High School. During his high school years, he developed a deep passion for football, a sport that brought him joy and camaraderie. His love for family and friends was evident in all aspects of his life, and he especially treasured caring for his children. When time allowed, Kurtis delighted in simple pleasures such as dining out, hosting cookouts, and visiting the beach, reflecting his profound fondness for the water.

A hardworking and dedicated individual, Kurtis devoted twenty-eight years of service to Pilgrim’s Pride, where he was respected and valued for his commitment. His spiritual life was equally important to him; from an early age, he was an active member of St. Paul AME Church Shawfield here in Sumter, nurturing his faith and community ties.

Kurtis shared seventeen years of marriage with his loving wife, Shatel Denise Spears Lewis, with whom he built a life grounded in love and mutual respect. He is remembered as a family man first and foremost, whose kindness and devotion uplifted those around him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Harvin, his grandmother, Fannie Lewis, and his niece, Ariana Keleah Wright. Their memories remain deeply etched in the hearts of those who loved them.

Robert “Kurtis” Lewis, Jr. leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Shatel Denise Lewis; his children: three sons—Kurtis Lewis of Sumter, South Carolina; Robert Lewis and Kurtis Lewis, both of Columbia, South Carolina; two daughters—Alexis Smith and Kurteesha Lewis, both of Sumter, South Carolina; and three stepdaughters—Marissa Green, Crystal Spears, and Shakeima Lesesne of Sumter, South Carolina. He was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life.

His loving mother, Joyce Lewis Wright, continues to hold him close in her heart. He is survived by two brothers, William (Alicia) G. Wright of Wedgefield, South Carolina, and Kevin (Joyce Youngs) T. Wright of Sumter, South Carolina; his sister Michelle Bennett of Charleston, South Carolina; and his stepfather, Ben Cook, Jr.

Kurtis also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Caroline Spears; three aunts—Eddie Lewis, Jannie Lewis, and Annette Fisher, all of Sumter, South Carolina; a special nephew, Jayceon Wright; as well as a host of other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who mourn his loss and celebrate his life.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Whites Mortuary, located at 517 N Guignard Drive, Sumter, South Carolina. The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, beginning at 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Jehovah Baptist Church, 805 S. Harvin Street, Sumter, South Carolina.

Robert “Kurtis” Lewis, Jr. was a man whose life was marked by love, dedication, and unwavering faith. His memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him. May he rest in eternal peace.