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Rhoda S. Lewis
10/11/1922 — 06/30/2014
From Richland, WA, USA | Born in Tacoma, WA
Rhoda S. Lewis
LEWIS, RHODA SUSSMAN October 11, 1922 - June 30, 2014
Rhoda Sussman Lewis, 91, of Richland passed away at her home on June 30, 2014. Her parents were Joseph and Minnie Sussman of Tacoma, Washington where she grew up with her three siblings, Leslie, Beatrice, and Joanne. Rhoda was the second oldest. She attended the University of Washington, where she studied journalism and was a member of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority as well as an editor for the University Daily. She married Milton Lewis in 1943 and they enjoyed 58 years of marriage and raised 3 children together in Richland, moving for two years to Santa Monica, California for her husband's sabbatical at UCLA and returning in the early 1960s. Rhoda was a co-founder with him of the Beth Shalom synagogue in Richland and an active member in the Sisterhood. She wrote advertising and was known for her wit and sense of humor, her creative writing ability and entertaining stories, as well as her strong and generous spirit. She travelled with her husband throughout the US and world, was an avid golfer, skier and water skier, grew prize winning roses as a member of the Tri-City Rose Society, and enjoyed many summers on the Columbia River with her neighbors and friends. After her husband was injured in a car accident, Rhoda was devoted to his care through his last years. He preceded her in death in 2001. She is survived by her sister Joanne Arfin Bernard of Palo Alto, California, her children Jeanne Pantone Owen Chariton of Lakewood, Colorado, Robin O'Hearn Chris of Wenatchee, and Mitchell Lewis of Kennewick, her granddaughter, Rachel Chariton of Lakewood and many nephews and nieces. Her memory will be cherished with love by her family and friends. A funeral service will be held at Einan's At Sunset in Richland on Thursday, July 3 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Congregation Beth Sholom, PO Box 761, Richland, WA 99352, or SIGN Fracture Care International, signfracturecare.org.
Mitch, Robin, &Jeanne I am sorry for your loss. My wife Linda died the night before Rhoda so I did not hear the news until later. We kept up her Rose Society membership to keep her in touch. I was glad I could help with her roses for a while. God bless.
Sorry for your loss Mitch. My condolences go out to you and your family. I only met her a few times, but I remember she was very sweet and kind. I could tell she was extremely proud of you.
I know this is a difficult time, so if there’s anything I can do to help please let me know.
Lewis family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anna
Dear Mitch and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. As our parents grow into their 90’s we know that a day will come when they will no longer be with us, but we are truly never ready for that day to arrive.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Best,
Theresa
Dear Lewis Children,
We knew both your wonderful parents as part of the Tri-City Rose Society for many years. They were truly special and we will always remember them. We are so sorry for you loss.
Mitch,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. It’s never easy. Cherish the memories as they live on.
You and your family are in my thoughts.
Kris Colosi
My thoughts are with all of the family. Rhoda was a beautiful spirit. I have many very fond memories of our Alaska Cruise and so enjoyed the love and support from Rhoda, Milt, Alma, Herb and L.
Mitch, Robin, &Jeanne I am sorry for your loss. My wife Linda died the night before Rhoda so I did not hear the news until later. We kept up her Rose Society membership to keep her in touch. I was glad I could help with her roses for a while. God bless.
Sorry for your loss Mitch. My condolences go out to you and your family. I only met her a few times, but I remember she was very sweet and kind. I could tell she was extremely proud of you.
I know this is a difficult time, so if there’s anything I can do to help please let me know.
Lewis family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Anna
Dear Mitch and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. As our parents grow into their 90’s we know that a day will come when they will no longer be with us, but we are truly never ready for that day to arrive.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Best,
Theresa
Dear Lewis Children,
We knew both your wonderful parents as part of the Tri-City Rose Society for many years. They were truly special and we will always remember them. We are so sorry for you loss.
Mitch,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. It’s never easy. Cherish the memories as they live on.
You and your family are in my thoughts.
Kris Colosi
My thoughts are with all of the family. Rhoda was a beautiful spirit. I have many very fond memories of our Alaska Cruise and so enjoyed the love and support from Rhoda, Milt, Alma, Herb and L.
Jeanne, Robin and Mitch: Our loving sympathy to you all in the loss of your mom. Rhoda and Milt were devoted friends and we shared many good times with them. Rhoda had a sharp wit and always entertained us with her funny comments. We had a great vacation with them up at Couer D’ Alene one time. We boated, played bridge and scrabble and swam in the lake. She will always have a place in our hearts.
Love, Bob and Shirley
Dear Jeanne, Robin and Mitch,
My heart is so sad for the loss of your beautiful, vibrant, gracious mom. I absolutely adored her – her wit, her kindness, her loyalty, her love of life. I will forever remember her and miss her.
Thank you for allowing us to serve your family during this difficult time. We are honored to have been able to be there for you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if there is anything that you need.
Mitch, Robin and Jeanne, Rhoda and your Dad were valued friends in the Tri-City Rose Society. They were both delightful. After Milt’s and my husband’s passing I took Rhoda to meetings when she was able to attend. As she cared for Milt, I now care for a friend who needed my presence at the time of Rhoda’s funeral. Please accept my deepest condolences as you hold them in your hearts.
Jeanne, Robin & Mitch, Our thoughts and prayers are with you with the loss of your mother. She was a great neighbor and friend for many years. We loved her wit and sense of humor, and admired her strength and caring during the final years of Milt’s life. We will always remember and cherish the years we had with her. Your were blessed to have such a wonderful mother. Love, Jim & Patty Felton
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Rhoda S. Lewis