Martin C. Lewis

Martin C. Lewis passed away Sunday August 16th at his home in Ringoes NJ, succumbing to his battle with cancer. His spirit left this world peacefully, surrounded by his husband and longtime loving friends.
Martin grew up in New Madrid in Southeast Missouri, later moved to St Louis, continued his education in Boston and settled in the Delaware Valley more than 20 years ago when he joined the pharmaceutical industry.

The passing of his father, Ralph Lewis, when he was 17 led him to a life of service to others, he was an EMT who responded to the call. With a sense of urgency and curiosity he pursued multiple degrees from Biochemistry and Exercise Kinesiology to a culmination as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in HIV. His background in research drew him to the pharmaceutical world where he was instrumental in the exposure and distribution of new treatments that were being developed. His career involved working with physicians and researchers, AIDS activist groups nationally and internationally, and he once spoke to Congress. He excelled in this and was recognized repeatedly, being especially proud to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care.

He retired from that arena due to a series of illnesses that continued over the rest of his life. His resilience was truly remarkable and inspiring, overcoming many debilitating conditions to the amazement of those around him. He did this with positivity and his signature warmth, never daunted by doing what was necessary to recover. During healthy periods he taught, advised and had a practice in medical aesthetics.

Despite many traumas in his life, Martin was a beacon of light to those who knew him. He inspired many, sometimes unknowingly, and did so with humility and grace. He is no longer with us in body but his spirit and compassion will continue to influence those of us who were touched by his presence.

He is survived by his husband, Kevin McPheeters, his mother Beth Lewis, brother Edward Lewis, Sister in law Tracy, nieces Claire and Ryan Lewis, nephew Adam McPheeters, niece McKinley McPheeters, and his two beagles, Einstein and Sunshine.

A service will be planned and announced at a later date, donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Partners in Health, St. Judes or a charity of your choice.

Martin will be missed.