By Ms. Rosemary Pope
Over seventy-five Family Members, Friends, Loyal supporters, and Political and Public Dignitaries gathered at The George L. Stevens Senior Center recently to pause, reflect, and share fond memories on the 20th-year passing of Councilman Charles L. Lewis lll (Aug. 8, 2004).
The Charles L. Lewis lll Assembly Room, decorated in black and gold colors with his posters, pictorials, and other memorabilia strategically placed, created an atmosphere of nostalgia. Councilman Lewis’ mother, Ms. Rosemary Pope, and sister, Ms. Charos Lewis Goodman, served as co-emcees and his nephews, Joseph E. Maull lV (LJ) and Zion Isaiah Maull, served as speakers, hosts, and videographers.
Program highlights include testimonials from childhood friend and co-worker, former San Diego Councilman Anthony Young; 4th District City Councilman Henry Foster lll; Chida Warren Darby, representing Mayor Todd Gloria; Dr. John Warren, Publisher of the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper; Kathie Hardie, retired AT&T; Atty. Mary Scott Knoll, Fair Housing Administration; David Monroe, retired Deputy Director Parks & Rec, Dr. Cassandra Foster, Extended Hands Worldwide Ministries; former co-worker, Herman Collins; and City of San Diego Retiree Peggy Cooper.
DJ John Phillips provided guests toe-tapping music to sing, dance, and reminisce. Vocalist Toot Bell wowed guests with Inspirational and Jazz music. Guests dined on a delectable and bountiful Turf & Surf catered buffet.
Since the passing of Councilman Lewis, the following have been named in his honor: City of San Diego Charles L. Lewis lll Skateboard Park, City of San Diego Charles L. Lewis lll Memorial Park, Camp Charles, Charles L. Lewis lll Assembly Room, and The Charles L. Lewis lll Scholarship Foundation.
This affair celebrating his life and legacy was filled with tears, laughter, joy, and love. Christy Haupt, retired Parks & Rec. Dept board member, aptly states, “Councilman Lewis epitomized the positive things about City Government. Working to make life better for, not only his constituents, but all San Diegans, was his message. How fortunate we were to have him in our lives, even for so short a time.”
