Pete Lewis

Pete Lewis, 86, of Lake Wales, FL passed away at his residence on July 16, 2026, following a brief illness. Per his wishes, Pete’s remains were cremated and a Celebration of Life will take place in the Chapel at Byne Memorial Church at 2pm on Saturday, August 8, 2026. 

Pete was born in Albany, GA on January 8, 1940 and attended Albany public schools and graduated from Albany High School. At the age of seven Pete started piano lessons and continued for the next six years. He formed a band in high school and after high school continued to play many venues in the South Georgia area. In 1980 he moved to Atlanta and was house band leader and pianist at The Capital City Club for almost fourteen years. In 1996 Pete and his wife Michelle moved to Port Charlotte, FL and played at many area clubs and restaurants in central and southwest Florida until his retirement in 2004.

Pete’s music interest was jazz and the Great American Songbook of jazz standards and popular songs. Over the years Pete collaborated with many musicians from all parts of the country and entertained many celebrities and dignitaries including President Gerald Ford and President Jimmy Carter. His other interests were antique cars, golf, college football, and ham radio. Pete was licensed by the FCC in 1991 with the call sign K4APX. Pete was a longtime member of Byne Memorial Baptist Church in Albany. He genuinely loved his family and many friends. 

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Ewell McDonald and Nell George Lewis, his daughter Melanie Lewis Shadburn, and sister Mary Prudence Lewis Brown.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Michelle Lewis, sons, George Lewis (Tammy), David Lewis (Felicia), and stepdaughter Ashley Caudy (Jacob) along with thirteen grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Pete’s memory are invited to make donations to the charity of your choice.