Elaine Lewis
- Elaine Lewis (born December 31, 1925) passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday morning, September 18th, 2022, at approximately 4:30 am at the age of ninety-six. A native of Columbus, she lived in the Capital city her entire life. She was the only child and the daughter of Isadore (Anne) Garek, an attorney who was well known for his contributions to the Jewish community both locally and internationally by the B’nai B’rith for his contributions to the State of Israel. Her father impressed upon her the importance of being a kind, compassionate, and considerate individual. At a young age, she took interest in the arts and was known for her particularly sharp eye. As a child, Elaine lived with her family in Columbus’s historic short east side—an area known for its strong Jewish presence at the time. She described those years saying, “it was a different time. There were stores that lined Livingston Avenue where men would have small shops and were carpenters, there were specialty paper stores, shoe cobblers (etc.).” She spoke fondly of those years and would lament as she remembered the time in America. As a young adult, Elaine attended Ohio State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree of fine art where she excelled. While at OSU, she joined the AEPHI, a sorority for Jewish women. Elaine married shortly thereafter and remained so for over seventy-five years. She and her husband traveled extensively through Europe and fell in love with France for its design and culture. In France, blue and white are prevalent colors amongst the city and those became her colors of choice. Elaine was predeceased by Richard Lewis (husband), Isadore Garek (father), Anne (mother). Elaine is survived by her children: Richard, Jr. (Carole); Gary and partner Vernon Alexander; Donald (Constance); Daniel. Grandchildren: Joshua (Emily); Leanne (Kevin); David; Zachary (Courtney); Joni; Michael (Sara); Alyson (Emily); six great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Elaine will be laid to rest at Dayton National Cemetery. Her wishes were to have a private family service. The family will be receiving visitors on Friday, September 30, from 1:00-5:00 pm at the Jewish Community Center of Columbus Ohio located at 1125 College Ave. Columbus, Ohio.
Donations in Elaine’s memory may be sent to Jewish Family Services.