Rodney Lou Lewis

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

— II Timothy 4:7-8

On November 13, 1946, a Bed Stuy King was born. Rodney “Lou” Lewis was born in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Theodore Lewis Sr. and Margaret McGee Lewis.

Rodney peacefully departed this earthly life on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

After graduating from high school, Rodney proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1966, following in the footsteps of his father, Theodore Lewis Sr., a World War II Veteran.

Rodney courageously and honorably served his country during the Vietnam War until 1968, when he was honorably discharged. receiving four Medals of Honor. (National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with One Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device and The Presidential Unit Citation)

After returning home to Bed Stuy, Rodney carried the pride, discipline, and strength of a Marine with his walk, talk, and swag.

Rodney was known throughout Brooklyn for his charisma, charm, handsome appearance, and lovable personality.

In the 1970s, it was well known that he was the life of the party — his smile, style, and energy could light up any room. Rodney had a way of making people feel acknowledged and respected by leaving every encounter with laughter and “whatnot”

A hardworking and skilled tradesman, Rodney built a career as a talented plumber and electrician with Henry Quentzel Plumbing Supply Company, where he dedicated nearly 50 years of loyal service. He took pride in providing for his family and carried himself with dignity, confidence, and a quiet strength.

One unforgettable night at a party in the “Boogie Down Bronx,” Rodney met Deloris Veal, who later became his wife. The two had lifelong friends who became family.

From this marital union, two daughters were born: Tina Delores Lewis-Claudino of New York, New York and Nicole Lewis of Brooklyn, New York.

Rodney was married a 2nd time in the 1990’s, to that estranged union, no children were conceived.

Rodney loved his family deeply. He was a proud father, loyal friend, respected neighbor, and devoted Marine. Though often private, 

those closest to him knew the depth of his love, loyalty, kindness and generosity.

Rodney was also well known for his love of cooking and playing lottery numbers. Of his winnings,  his children, grandchildren and close friends were blessed…He enjoyed sharing his lucky numbers with others, hoping they would win alongside him.  A proclaimed family chef, Rodney created such dishes such as shrimp potato salad and stuffed clam shells for which our family raved during holidays.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore Lewis Sr. and Margaret Delores Lewis-Wiggins; his brother, Theodore Lewis Jr.; his sister, Margaret Regina Bullock; and his ex-wife, Delores Lewis.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his two loving daughters, Tina and Nicki; one son-in-law, Ricardo Claudino; and one brother-in-law, Ernie Bullock.

Five grandchildren, Zamond Lewis, Kevin Green II, Elijah  Lewis, Kaia  Posley and Arianna Lewis-Claudino. Four great-grandchildren: Zayden Lewis, Zoey Lewis, Kaliyah Lewis and Ahmari  Al Khani; Two nephews, Christopher Hinton-Kelly and Ernest Estee Bullock and niece Stacy Bullock.

Rodney came from a very large family on his maternal and paternal sides.  A few of his cousins who he kept in touch over his lifetime Edna "June" MaGee, & her sisters Hope & Sandy. Cousin Gloria Jean Potet from his Irish roots ☘️ Chuck and Neil Johnson and their siblings from his Lewis, South Carolina roots.

He also leaves to cherish his memories a host of extended family and lifelong friends.

Rodney “Lou” Lewis will forever remain in our hearts and memories.

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