Lewis J. Anderson Sr.

LEWIS J. ANDERSON, SR., the son of Phillip James and Sally Mae (Lewis) Anderson, was born March 18, 1939 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He was the third born among fourteen siblings. Lewis was raised in Morocco, Missouri, where he was educated and worked as a farmer.

Lewis was united in Holy Matrimony to Lottie B. (Cole) Anderson on June 18, 1959 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and to this union six (6) children were born. In 1967, he and his wife moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, along with their children, seeking new opportunities. Lewis and Lottie were blessed to share 65 years of marriage. In God’s perfect timing, Lewis and Lottie were called home seven months apart on the very same date (5/22/25 and 12/22/25), and Lewis has been reunited eternally with his beloved wife, Lottie.

Lewis discovered his gift as a self-taught auto mechanic in his early teenage years and spent much of his life doing what he loved most, working on cars. Older models held a special place in his heart, and he worked on them with patience, skill, and pride. After moving to Indianapolis, he worked as a mechanic at Pete’s Auto Service Center and later opened his own auto repair shop, Anderson’s Auto Garage, which he operated for many years.

Lewis found joy in the simple blessings of life. He enjoyed watching his favorite Western television shows. He loved sitting on his porch each day, occasionally listening to blues music and the soulful sounds of quartet singer Lee Williams, and welcoming the company of his family and friends who regularly stopped by to visit, share stories, and enjoy one another’s presence. A true grill master, Lewis was especially known for his love of barbecuing and his famous ribs, which he generously shared with family and friends who occasionally requested special orders. These moments of fellowship and laughter reflected his warm spirit and the love he had for those around him.

Lewis knew the Lord, he was baptized at an early age on the banks of Black River in Morocco, Missouri. In his final days, Lewis accepted the plan of salvation and placed his faith in the Lord.

Lewis entered eternal rest on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the age of 86 years. His parents; wife, Lottie B. Anderson; son, Lewis Jr.; two brothers, Jerry Anderson and Robert Anderson; three sisters: Dorothy Hawes, Linda Smith and Marbeline Rowling, all preceded him in death.

He leaves to cherish his memory: seven children: Calvin Anderson, Chrisella Parrish (Alec), Vivian Helms (Paul), Lottie Inez Anderson, Walter Anderson, Odell Love (Audrey) of Clarksville, Tennessee and Eugene Anderson; 22 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; five brothers: Charles Anderson, William James Anderson (Elizabeth), Sylvester Anderson, Donnell Anderson (Willene), all of Poplar Bluff, Missouri and Michael Anderson (Cubie) of Cordova, Tennessee; three sisters: Joyce Rose of Memphis, Tennessee, Vermal Blackman of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and Peggy Carter; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.