Russell Hoerle Lewis III, 33, of Lexington, KY, passed away Friday, July 8, 2022, at his mother’s home in Portsmouth after a brief illness. He was born July 19, 1988, in Portsmouth, a son of Margaret LeAnn Campbell Lewis and the late Russell Hoerle Lewis, Jr.
A 2006 graduate of Portsmouth Notre Dame High School, Russell earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Shawnee State University. He was currently working toward a Master of Public Health degree at the University of Kentucky, where he began working as a Research Analyst in 2018. Russell received a Behavioral Science Staff Award and was a dedicated member of his work team, consistently going above and beyond what was expected of him. He recently accepted the position of Administrative Research Assistant Principle at the Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, UK College of Medicine.
He was a mystery to many. Quiet and thoughtful around some, boisterous and opinionated around others. Each time he opened his mouth to speak, people listened. Russell’s talents ranged from cooking and baking to trivia of the most obscure kind. His love of classic film and award shows was infectious and began a tradition that will long be carried on by his family.
Russell loved oversized t-shirts and huge, cozy blankets. He loved pasta and reality television. He loved his dogs, including Bumper, Beetle, Blue, Brynn, and even Boots. Most of all, he loved his family. His brusque exterior hid a loving and caring parental nature. He will be remembered as a caregiver, a fiendish gift-giver, and a quick wit. He will be remembered as an enigma wrapped in a riddle, and cash. He will be remembered as an explainer of board game rules and a reluctant tech support assistant. He will be remembered as a researcher, a friend, a brother, and a son. He will be remembered.
Russell is survived by his mother, LeAnn Lewis of Portsmouth; his brother, Zachary Lewis of Centerville; maternal grandparents, Jack and Margaret (Truman) Campbell of Portsmouth; his beloved dogs; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who dearly love him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Russ Lewis, Jr., who welcomed him home with open arms.
A Memorial Service will be planned at a later date under the direction of the Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home in Portsmouth.