Kathryn R. Lewis

Kathryn (Kathy) Rene Lewis, age 63, was born into eternal life on Tuesday, March 21st, after a short illness. 

Kathy was born on February 17th, 1960 to Donald and Carol Renfro in Two Rivers, WI. After Kathy graduated from East High School in Rockford, she married her beloved husband, Michael Lewis, on March 10th, 1979. Kathy was deeply committed to her Christian faith and spent many years supporting Pro-Life causes in the Rockford area, serving as a spokesperson for the Right-to-Life group in Rockford during the 1980’s and continuing her heroic work out of the public eye as her focus shifted to raising her children. Kathy worked as a high school librarian at Christian Life Schools during the 1990’s and later served the parish of St. Rita as the head office secretary. She poured her soul into her work and touched the hearts of many students and parishioners during those years. She retired early to care for her mother and mother-in-law, and later went on to volunteer at The Poor Clares in Rockford. Kathy loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, teaching them how to sew, cook, and garden. Even when her rheumatoid arthritis was slowing her down, she was always ready to lend a hand to an elderly neighbor, a sick relative, or anxious friend.

Though we all feel it is far too early to say good-bye to our dear wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, we know that she remains an anchor of faith for her family and that all her words of encouragement will continue to bless and strengthen us. We are amazed by the fortitude and hope that sustained her during her last illness, and remain so grateful for her husband Michael and the faithfulness that bound her family together. The only concern she voiced in those last days was, “I still have things to do.” She wanted so much to continue to serve, to love, to encourage. We know that heaven will not prevent her from doing such; her beautiful voice will continue to speak to our hearts, especially as we draw closer to the heart of God.

Kathy is survived by her husband Michael, her children: Bethany (Dan) Janeiro, Christopher Lewis, Erin (Krista) Lewis; her grandchildren: Isabella, Perola, Nuno, and Rui; her siblings: Don (Cindy) Renfro, Karen (Angus) Shull, Lisa (Derek) Benhoff, Michael (Anna) Renfro, and Christopher (Helen) Renfro, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Kathy was predeceased by her father Donald and mother Carol. 

Visitation will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home (Riverside location) on Thursday, March 30th from 6-8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. James’ Catholic Church in Belvidere, IL on March 31st at 10am followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Poor Clare Monastery in Rockford, IL.