Obituary of Lavinia Lea Lewis

Lavinia Lea (Screws, Lazenby) Lewis passed away on September 21, 2021 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Lea was born in Talladega, AL to E.L. “Buddy” and Margaret Fulmer Screws. Lea studied piano, was a majorette and was named Miss THS at Talladega High School. She remained friends for her entire life with childhood playmates. Lea attended Auburn University where she met and married William Wayne Lazenby. After graduation, Lea and Wayne moved from Alabama for the military and had a daughter Margaret Lea. She spent most of her married life with Wayne and Margaret in Greenville, SC. Lea had a productive career as an interior designer and made lasting friendships including with Ray Griffin whom she cherished as she would a son. Lea returned to Talladega after she was widowed and married Samuel D. Lewis. She played the organ at First Presbyterian Church and dedicated her energy to rescuing homeless cats and dogs. Lea loved being with her two grandchildren, visiting with her friends, working with Sam in their gardens, and selecting and practicing the church music. Lea is survived her daughter Margaret (Henry) Ritchie, grandson Rob and granddaughter Leanna, as well as nieces and nephews. Her daughter and grandchildren are grateful for the close family and friends who loved her and grieve her loss and the angels who cared for her in the last two years. “O lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me.” Ps. 30:2 The family will receive friends at the church hall of First Presbyterian Church, Talladega AL at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, October 2, 2021. A memorial service is planned for 4:00 p.m. lead by Rev. Leeann Scarbrough, all to be followed by a graveside interment. Usrey-Brown Service Funeral Home is directing services. Memorial donations in Lea’s name to sustain the music and ministries of First Presbyterian Church 130 N. St. E. 35160 are welcome.