Roy “Pop” Lewis passed away on March 23, 2004.  He was 98 years old.

Born September 22, 1905, in Pickens, SC, Pop was one of ten children. His family moved to Lincolnton, GA, when he was only five years old. On October 25, 1925, Pop (who was “Roy” then) eloped with Mom (who was Pauline Holloway). They had eight children, seven of whom survive them. After 77 years of marriage, Pop lost his wife on February 8, 2003, when Mom Lewis passed away.

Pop was honored during his career with the Lifetime Achievement Award from SGN Scoops magazine and induction into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame. He was the subject of a portrait the Southern Gospel Music Association commissioned in 2001, which featured Pop as the patriarch of four generations of gospel music artists. Pop and Mom Lewis began a family that has become known worldwide for their bluegrass gospel music during the last 54 years. Pop endeared himself to his many fans with his friendliness, humor, and down-home ways. He is best remembered for the song “Just One Rose Will Do.” Pop made only a few special appearances during the last two years as he battled health problems, but his heart was with his family as they traveled to sing.

Barbara Dunn King

[The Lewis Family continue to entertain people today, featuring Polly, Janis and “Little”  Roy.  I had the pleasure of appearing on the same billing with them in Kissimmee, Florida in 2003. – Dusty Owens, TCM Radio News]