Ralph McGay “Mack” Lewis, Sr., age 92, of Pinetops, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026.

Born on May 13, 1933, in Vance County, Mack was the son of the late Albert and Lucille Carter Lewis. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Tom, Sidney, Earl, and David Lewis; his sister, Gladys Lewis; his son, Ralph McGay Lewis II; and his grandson, Ralph McGay Lewis III.

At the age of 17, Mack proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, completing his basic training in Hawaii. During his service, he demonstrated extraordinary courage under fire. While assisting in the construction of a defensive bunker behind Hill 487, an enemy artillery shell exploded nearby, knocking him to the ground. Despite being shaken, he quickly regained his footing and sought cover in a nearby foxhole, narrowly escaping further injury as the shell landed just feet away from his position. His bravery and dedication were recognized with the National Defense Service Medal and the Efficiency Honor Fidelity Award.

In his early years, Mack worked as a skilled mechanic and welder and later became the owner and operator of Lewis’s Garage. He was widely respected for his strong work ethic and craftsmanship. Mack and his beloved wife, Yvonne, also shared a passion for long-distance trucking with Glaxo, a journey that allowed them to travel extensively across the United States and create lasting memories together.

Mack was a devoted family man who cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also had a deep appreciation for good food and the joy of gathering with loved ones.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Yvonne Wilson Lewis; his daughters, Donna Bailey (Frank) and Vivian Lockamy (Johnny); his grandchildren, Angel Lewis, Crystal Creech, Gray Bailey (Pam), Megan Robbins (Thomas), Joshua Briggs (Logan), Mandi and Hunter Bass; and his great-grandchildren, Ricky Shadding, Harley Cook, Christine Barefoot, Nathan and Carson Briggs, Judah, Mack, Zeke, and Walt Bailey, Tobias Robbins, Wyatt, Walker, and Willow Creech, and Kendall, Delaney, and Alexis Lewis.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Tarboro Church of God, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Reverend Teresa Dew will officiate. Burial will follow at Edgecombe Memorial Park.

Mack will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.