DiAnne Derby Lewis' Obituary
DiAnne Sue Derby Lewis, 88, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at her home while in the care of Novant Health Hospice, surrounded by family. She was born January 29, 1938, in Wichita Falls, TX, to Ted and Emma (Gouchie) Derby. She was the youngest of six children: Jane, Norman, Junior, Evelyn, and David. DiAnne attended Catholic school in Wichita Falls and, from an early age, helped care for her sisters’ children. She loved school, earned excellent grades, and sang in her church choir. She also studied piano, becoming an accomplished pianist who performed in many recitals. She enjoyed bowling as well, joining her father on his bowling nights and later bowling in leagues for many years, winning trophies and hoping to turn professional.
At 17, DiAnne was introduced to Jerry Lewis by a friend in February 1955. They soon began dating, became engaged in June, and were married July 1, 1955, in Grandfield, OK. Together they raised four children: Jerry Glenn Jr., David, Barry, and Lori. DiAnne devoted herself to her family as a dedicated stay-at-home mother.
DiAnne and Jerry spent the next several years in Texas. In 1959, Jerry accepted a position with Martin Aerospace, and the family moved to Littleton, CO. During this time, DiAnne attended and graduated from beauty school and became a licensed beautician.
Later, after DiAnne encouraged Jerry to retire rather than move to New Jersey, she visited her sisters and brother in San Antonio. On a drive to the coast, she discovered Rockport, TX, and knew it was where they wanted to retire. They built a beautiful home on the water and lived there for nearly 20 years. In Rockport, DiAnne was active in her church and in her HOA, serving in many roles. She also volunteered with hospice and cared for a very handicapped young woman. She deeply loved her Rockport home and the many friends she made there.
In 2012, they moved to Hot Springs, AR, to be closer to grandchildren, their son David, and a casino. Later, they relocated to Huntersville, NC, to be near Jerry Glenn and Barry and their children.
DiAnne and Jerry loved to travel throughout the United States, visit Hong Kong and Singapore, and take cruises together.
DiAnne was a devoted mother and wife, a faithful Catholic, a dedicated volunteer, and a wonderful cook. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
DiAnne was preceded in death by her parents, her five siblings, and her son David. Those who cherish her memory include her husband of 70 years, Jerry G. Lewis; her son Jerry G. Lewis Jr. and his wife, Kathy; her son Barry S. Lewis and his wife, Brenda; her daughter Lori Lewis and her husband, Dennis Deblick; her daughter-in-law Sandy Lewis.
A celebration of DiAnne’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM at James Funeral Home, 10520 Arahova Drive, Huntersville, NC 28078. Interment will follow at Northlake Memorial Gardens, Alexandrianna Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078.
In Lieu of flowers, please donate in DiAnne’s name to the charity of one’s choice.
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