Kenneth “Ken” William Lewis, 97, of Moro, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A man of unwavering faith, strong character, and boundless kindness, Ken lived a life defined by service to God, devotion to family, and dedication to his community.
Born on November 26, 1928, in Olympia, Washington, Ken was the son of the late Charles Elmer and Mildred Beatrice (Ward) Lewis. From an early age, he developed the strong work ethic and integrity that would become hallmarks of his life.
Ken proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the United States Army, carrying the values of honor, courage, and commitment throughout his lifetime. On August 26, 1961, he married the love of his life, Patsy House, in St. Louis, Missouri. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, faith, and family until Patsy’s passing in 2008. Love found Ken once more when he married Betty (Gardner) Johnson on September 25, 2010, on his beloved farm in Moro. Their fifteen years together were filled with joy, companionship, and countless cherished memories.
A faithful and devoted member of Bethalto Church of God, Ken’s passion for sharing the Gospel touched countless lives. For fifty years, his voice carried messages of faith and hope across the airwaves through his weekly radio ministry on WGNN and later KXEN. His steadfast commitment to Christ and his genuine love for others made him a source of encouragement and inspiration to many.
Professionally, Ken was the respected owner and operator of Ken Lewis Builders. Throughout the region, he earned a reputation not only as a talented craftsman but as an honest and dependable businessman whose word was his bond. Beyond construction, he found great joy in farming and ranching, embracing the simple pleasures of working the land he loved. Whether traveling, tending his farm, “Holy Cow Ranch”, preaching God's Word, or gathering with family, Ken approached life with enthusiasm, gratitude, and generosity.
Above all else, Ken treasured his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose warmth and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home. He never met a stranger, and his genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. His legacy of faith, hard work, compassion, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved first wife, Patsy Lewis; his brother, Donald Lewis; and his son-in-law, Ronnie Young.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Lewis of Moro; his loving children, Debbie (Charles Payne) Lewis of Niceville, Florida, Diana Young of Granite City, Illinois, Darla Lewis of Moro, Illinois, and Darena Lewis of East Alton, Illinois; his stepdaughter, Vicki Johnson of Granite City, Illinois; his sister, Dorothy Shaw of Pasco, Washington; his cherished grandchildren, William Payne, Ashley Young, Dustin (Carlie) Young, and Brianna Gettleman; his treasured great-grandchildren, Nora Young and Lydia Young; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Bethalto Church of God, 800 East Bethalto Boulevard, Bethalto, Illinois. Funeral services celebrating Ken’s remarkable life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the church, with Pastor Jacob Skelton officiating. Ken will be laid to rest beside Patsy at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois.
Memorial donations may be made to the Bethalto Church of God Youth Ministry, a cause close to Ken’s heart, and will be accepted at the church.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
