HONORING JAMES A. LEWIS IV

HONORING JAMES A. LEWIS IV

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 49 (Wednesday, March 18, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 49 (Wednesday, March 18, 2026)] [House] [Page H2554] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JAMES A. LEWIS IV (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of James A. Lewis IV, who tragically passed away on January 26, 2026, at the age of 46. James was the beloved son of Reverend Dr. James A. Lewis III and Lady Zandra Lewis of Miracle Missions Full Gospel Church. He was a loving brother to Lisa, Colby, Tamara, Jamila, and Jermaine. He was a trusted friend. Above all, he was a devoted father to Jadah and grandfather to JaKai James Smith, instilling a love that will forever run deep within them. For James, his friends, family, and community were everything. On Sundays, one didn't have to look far to find James. He would be at the grill, apron on, with tongs in hand and a smile on his face, graciously making sure everyone had a full plate. It was a simple demonstration of his kind and generous spirit. One of the quiet ways he showed love was by making sure everyone was taken care of. He carried that same spirit of service into every facet of his life, including his work at the Erie County Medical Center and Golisano Children's Hospital of Buffalo. He helped keep patients safe, supported frontline caregivers, and ensured that healing could happen. James went on to build a business of his own, starting a cleaning company, driven by excellence and commitment to service. Through his work, James supported community institutions of all sizes and helped create spaces where opportunity and hope could flourish and take root. James measured his success by whether his family was cared for, whether his work was done well, and whether he lived in accordance with his faith. Today, his legacy lives on through his beloved family. In them, his strength endures; and his spirit carries forward. The backbone of this Nation is built by those like James A. Lewis IV, people who serve quietly, love fiercely, and build community one act of kindness at a time. May we honor him not just for what he did but for who he was. May we carry forward his example by loving our families more intentionally, serving our communities more faithfully, and remembering that greatness is often found in everyday acts of devotion. Our community and our Nation grieves with the Lewis family. May memories of his life and the knowledge that he is now in the arms of the Lord comfort them. May James A. Lewis IV rest in peace. ____________________