Richard Owen Lewis

Richard Lewis ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Highlands Family-Owned Funeral Home - Louisville on Mar. 17, 2026.Richard Owen Lewis, 80, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15th, 2026.Richard was born in Louisville, Kentucky, to Richard Owen Lewis, Jr. and Alice Elizabeth Lewis. Richard grew up in Madison, Indiana and graduated from Madison High School in 1963. He graduated from the University of Kentucky before studying law at Western State University, Fullerton, CA. Richard practiced law in California for over 20 years before returning home to Louisville, KY, where he dedicated 14 years to the Kentucky Courts of Justice.Throughout his life, Richard received several honors recognizing his service and involvement. He was commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel by Governors Julian M. Carroll in 1979, John Y. Brown, Jr. in 1981, and Martha Layne Collins in 1985. In 1988, he was also commissioned as an honorary Captain of the Belle of Louisville. Richard was a proud member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Association and recognized for his service and leadership as President of the Southern California UK Alumni Club in 1985.He was also a proud member of numerous professional and civic organizations, including the American Bar Association (1993-94), United States District Court Central District of California, Orange County Bar Association, Kentucky Bar Association, and the Lyndon Elks Club 2052.Richard was preceded in death by his mother and father, Alice Lewis and Richard Owen Lewis, Jr.; and longtime friends, Tom Armstrong and Jay Narwold, with whom he shared a lifetime of adventures.Those left to cherish Richard's memory include his sisters, Sharon Manley (Kevin Gatewood), Karen Sue Klein; nephews, Lawrence W. Owens, Jr. (Kelley), Larry Klein, Jr. (Charlene), Jacob Klein; nieces, Jennifer Clark (Keith), Deanna Owens, Malina Shearn (Jason); great nephews, Dawson Woodard, Grayson Owens, Easton Owens; great niece McKenna Woodard; and a host of friends and family, including his lifelong friends Rich Jackson, Bill Rowlett, and Ann Armstrong.In keeping with Richard's wishes, cremation was chosen, with a private family service. Those who wish to honor Richard may donate to Jane's Kids (rivervalleyresources.com).To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.