Dr. Richard Joseph “Richie” Lewis passed away on January 21, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the age of 89.
Born on May 12, 1936, in Tracy, Missouri. Richard's life was marked by unwavering faith, a deep commitment to education and ministry, and a profound love for his family.Richard graduated from North Platte High School in the 1954 and pursued his calling in ministry and theology with steadfast dedication. He earned his undergraduate degree from Bethany Nazarene College in 1958 and went on to receive a Master of Theology from the Nazarene Theological Seminary in 1961. His academic journey culminated with a Doctorate of Education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1978.Richard began his pastoral career in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1961. Over the next decade, he served congregations in Benton, Arkansas (1962–1966), Little Rock (1966–1968), and Elizabethtown, Kentucky (1969–1972). In each community he served, Richard brought compassion, wisdom, and spiritual guidance to those around him.In 1972, Richard transitioned into higher education at Trevecca Nazarene University as Dean of Students before moving into teaching roles until 1980. That year marked the beginning of a long and impactful tenure at Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs. As Dean of Students and later as a faculty member until his retirement in 2023, Richard influenced generations of students. He was especially passionate about the Cohort program, where he mentored aspiring ministers with care and conviction.
Alongside his professional work in ministry and education, Richard co-founded the Colorado Springs Christian Counseling Center with his wife Ruth and daughter Sherri. From 1985 until 2021, they provided compassionate support to individuals and families seeking healing and direction. Richard continued his ministry with his wife Carla through their shared commitment to compassionate care of those suffering grief.Richard was deeply enriched by his family. He shared his life and ministry for more than fifty years with his beloved wife Ruth (Knutson) until her passing. He was blessed later in life to find companionship again with his wife Carla (Gorman), who survives him. Through Carla’s family, Richard embraced Ben Gorman and his wife Sarah and their children; Amy Gorman and her children; and Derek Gorman and his wife Stephanie and their children.
He is also lovingly remembered by his daughter Sherri Peach and her husband Don Peach, along with their sons, Ryan and Cody; son Kerry Lewis and his spouse Greg Gatewood; daughter Shauna Goodwin and her husband Jerry Goodwin, along with their sons Joseph and Jarod. Richard is also survived by his great-granddaughters, Lilliana and Ava Peach, who held a special place in his heart.
Richard is survived by his siblings: sister Lorene Boydston and her sons Steve and Tim with their families; sister Pauline Tasler and her son Jonathan with family; brother Curtis Lewis and his wife Denise along with their children Amy, Lori, Jamie, Jeremy, and their families.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Ruth (Knutson), parents Paul W. Lewis and Wilma (Bosch) Lewis, as well as nephew Jason Tasler.
Outside of work and ministry, Richard found joy in simple pleasures that reflected both nostalgia and curiosity. He had a fondness for classic radio programs from yesteryear—stories that echoed through time much like the legacy he leaves behind. He enjoyed working with miniature HO trains as well as collecting antique tractors and implements. One of his favorite places was his mountain property in Clear Creek County—a retreat where he could reflect amid nature’s quiet beauty.
Richard devoted his life to Jesus Christ from an early age. His faith was not only central to his vocation but also evident in every interaction—with students seeking guidance, parishioners needing comfort, or family members sharing everyday moments.
May the memory of Dr. Richard Joseph “Richie” Lewis bring comfort to all who knew him—and may the seeds he planted through faith-filled service continue to grow for generations to come.
A Visitation will be held on February 2, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Evergreen Funeral Home, 1830 E. Fountain Boulevard. A Visitation also will be held on February 3, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life at Trinity Church of the Nazarene, 5055 El Camino Drive, Colorado Springs.
A Visitation will be held on February 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at the Vaughn Funeral Home, 18905 St. Rt. 45 North, Weston, Missouri, followed by a Graveside Service at 11:15 AM at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, 18780 County Road P, Weston, Missouri. Arrangements By: Vaughn Funeral Home, Weston, MO.
