Eugene Talmadge Lewis

Eugene Talmadge Lewis, 91, of Lincolnton, Georgia, passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026. Born in Lincolnton to the late Pauline Holloway “Mom” Lewis and James Roy “Pop” Lewis, he was the sixth of eight siblings raised in the small town they held so dear. He graduated from Lincoln County High School in 1954.

A gifted musician, Talmadge played the fiddle in his family’s gospel bluegrass band, which became known throughout the region as the legendary Lewis Family. Music and faith were central to his family’s life and brought joy to countless listeners over the years.

Later, he stepped away from performing and founded Talmadge Lewis Motors. Through hard work and determination, he built a successful business that grew into Lewis Bus Line. Talmadge had a deep love for animals and was known for devoting many hours to feeding stray cats and rescuing those in need. Friends and family often recalled his habit of bringing home injured or abandoned creatures, including an owl, a skunk, and an armadillo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Polly Copsey, Miggie Lewis, Wallace Lewis, and Mosley Lewis. He is survived by his loving wife, Cornelia Lagroon Lewis; sons Joey Lewis and wife Cheryl, Mike Lewis and wife Joy, and Stan Lewis; grandsons Joshua and Jacob; brothers Roy Lewis and wife Bonnie, and Esley Lewis and wife Evelyn; sister Janis Phillips; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, a passion for music, and the many lives he touched.