Leslie James Lewis

Leslie James Lewis of St. James, MO passed away peacefully at his home in St. James, MO at 64 years of age. Mr. Lewis was born September 19, 1956, in St. Louis, MO, the son of the late Leslie Ervin and Marcella Rose Colter Lewis.

His passion for music led him on a cross-country journey culminating in New Orleans where he met the love of his life, Judith Ann Waters. He moved to her hometown of Syracuse, New York. Leslie and Judith wed on May 9, 1987, in Syracuse, NY. 

Les “Jelly Roll” Lewis enjoyed Cajun and Old-Time music. He was an award-winning fiddle player and played professionally with many bands in Missouri, Louisiana, and New York. Some of the bands include; The Sins of the Pioneers, Cousin Curtis, and the Cash Rebates, Gris Gris, T-Wayne & The Swamptones, and Delta Rays. 

Les was also a highly skilled tradesman and started his own business upon moving to St. James (Lewis Mechanical).

In 2001, after battling cancer, Les moved his family to his parent's hometown of St. James. His favorite childhood memories were spent in St. James with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. It was his joy to gift his lineage a life rich with family history.

Leslie is survived by his wife of 33 years; Judy Waters, two daughters: Alyce Lewis and Sarah Lewis both of St. James, MO., one sister Cindy Vogelsang, her husband Doug Vogelsang and their son Ben of St. Louis, MO. Along with 3 grandchildren: Riley Rose Gibson, Leslie Eugene Lewis, and Ervin James Lewis.

The family is planning to bury his ashes on the family plot at the St. James Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the family.

On-Line condolences may be entered at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, MO.

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