Gary Randal Lewis

Gary Randal Lewis, 72, passed away August 6, 2017 at Randolph Health after a brief illness. Gary was born in Asheboro, NC to Farley and Maggie Keeling Lewis on December 29, 1944. He graduated from Asheboro High School and studied at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA.

Gary was the leader of Swing On!, a unique 8-piece band specializing in the Big Band sounds of the 30's, 40's and 50's. He performed in more than 200 cities throughout the United States, Bermuda, Canada, Austria, Germany, and Netherlands. Gary performed with Stevie Wonder, Ben E. King, Billy Ray Cyrus, US Airways Jazz Orchestra, Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Guy Lombardo's Royal Canadians, USO Jazz Orchestra, Gladys Knight and The Pips, Dionne Warwick, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and many more. These performers, however, paled in comparison to the relationships he built with his fellow band members and other musicians who were a huge part of his extended family.

In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his sister, Doris Lewis Krewson. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his life partner of 33 years, Chris Caviness; and his beloved Australian Shepard, Gabby, of the home. Also surviving are his son Randy Lewis (Laura) and granddaughter Hannah of Cary, NC; son Kemp Lewis of Youngsville, NC; son Garrett Lewis of Asheboro, NC and son Brent Lewis (Tonia) and granddaughter Bethany of Seagrove, NC along with two nieces and a nephew.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Pugh Funeral Home Chapel, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro on August 12 at 11am. The family will receive friends after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Randolph County SPCA, 300 W. Bailey Street, Asheboro, NC 27203.