Ms. Maria B. Lewis' Obituary
Mother Maria Branch Lewis, an ordained Missionary Teacher, the 7th child of the late Tom and Carrie L. Branch of Boligee, Alabama. Mother Lewis was converted at age nine years. Zealous and eager to know more about the Lord and His word, her searching of the scriptures brought her to the knowledge of baptism in Jesus' name and in-filling of the Holy Ghost. She was baptized and received the anointing of the Holy Ghost in i953. Her late husband, Rev. William Henry Lewis, founded and operated the Southern Leadership Institute Inc. in Meridian, MS of which she became a part after completing special studies in the Bible and Race Relations. Mother Lewis taught English and Citizenship courses at Christ Missionary and Industrial College (CM&L) in Jackson, Mississippi. After her return to Meridian, Mother Lewis began instructing young men and women in "The Basic of Personal Evangelism" and Co-founded the Free Gospel Temple Inc. She has actively participated in several radio broadcasts including "The Southern Goodwill Hour'' and Free Gospel Temple Idea" which were featured on several stations in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Tennessee and the District of Columbus. She leaves to cherish her memories, two sisters, Carrie Wingate of Seattle, Washington, Lizzie Lewis of Picayune, MS, nine (9) nieces, Diane Brown (Baltimore MD), Beverly Lewis & Betty Lewis (Picayune, MS), Edith Lewis (Dallas, TX), Deborah Cain, Nancy B. Holloway, Stephanie C. Cain, April M. Hood (Los Angeles, CA). Other relatives and friends.
Although, she never bore any children, she was a mother figure for many young women in and outside of the church.
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