Dr. John David Lewis, Jr., (mediocre golfer, amateur comedian, and respected dentist) passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family and friends.
In practice at the Shallowford Dental, Dr. Lewis was known for his professionalism, skill, and most notably, his sense of humor. Dr. Lewis could always be counted on to bring a joke to even the most stressful of dental appointments. His charm was legendary, and he loved talking (loudly) to everyone he met.
Born in 1954, Dr. Lewis played football at East Ridge High School, where he served as both homework helper and social coordinator for his beloved sister Debbie. He attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he was a cheerleader and member of the Signa Chi fraternity. Ever brilliant, Dr. Lewis graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Biology and Chemistry double major in 1976 and then completed his dental training at the University of Tennessee Dental School in Memphis in 1981, returning to Chattanooga to begin practicing dentistry.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Marlene and John Lewis, Sr; brother, Michael Lewis; nephew, Lance Roden; and brother-in-law, Garry Roden.
He is survived by his adored wife of 41 years, Linda. As a couple, Linda and David radiated charisma and kindness, adopting a motely crew of huskies, cats, and friends alike and sustaining their families through endless care and generosity. They could be regularly found together cheering on their beloved Vols or golfing at Windstone, where Dr. Lewis was a coveted golf partner thanks both to his wit and his handicap.
Dr. Lewis is additionally survived by his sister, Debbie Roden; niece, Stephanie (Jay) Fowler, and great-niece and nephew, McKenzie and Jarrod. He leaves behind his mother-in-law, Peggy Young; sisters-in-law, Hope (Tommy) Sisson, and Jenny Young. Additional surviving family members include nieces and nephews, Traci (Keith) Reece, Kit (Heather) Napier, and Lindsey (Doug) Dodson, along with great-nieces and nephews, Peyton, Chapman, and Luna, and extended family, Candy Brown, Cindy Lou Norman, Dr. Brenda Ross and too many others to name.
A Celebration of David's Life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 21, at 3 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Tom Tucker officiating. Following the service the family would like to invite family and friends to join them for a reception at 8121 Slugger Way, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Tunnels to Towers, The Wounded Warrior Project, or the Elks Club #91.
You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com
The family will receive friends on Saturday, Dec. 21, from 12-3 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.