James Raleigh Lewter

James Raleigh Lewter, 78, of District Heights, MD passed away March 7, 2023.

James was born January 1, 1945 to Charlie and Gladiola Lewter. He was one of eight children.

At an early age James attended Rehoboth Apostolic Church in Suffolk, VA. He sang alongside his Mom, Dad, and siblings, and played the guitar in their family’s group, The Lewter Soul Stirrers. After school he attended Job Corp, where he received his auto mechanic trade. James married Gaynell Marie Walker on August 6, 1966 and from that union came three children. James Joined the His Church on Stanton Road in Washington, D.C. He was a member who faithfully took part in the early Sunday morning Christian education class. He was a great leader for the church musicians, sharing musical skills and gifts he received from God. James started working at CXS in his mid 20s where he faithfully worked as a track Forman until he retired. James enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and was always full of laughter and was sure to spread laughter to others. He especially loved spending quality time with his grands and great grandchildren. He also enjoyed fixing and working on cars in his spare time, and he was very good at it. After retiring, James dedicated his time to caring for his wife during her illness until she passed.

James was preceded in death by his parents Charlie T. Lewter  and Gladiola Lewter, wife Gaynell Lewter, son James Lewter, sister Lilly Mae Jones, four brother in laws Thomas Futrell Jr., Herman Walker, Sam Brown, and Fred Watson.

He leaves to cherish his memories two daughters Emily Cooper and Vonita Lewter, six siblings Charlie Lewter (Eula), Wordell Lewter (Cornelia), Doris Futrell, Queen Watson, Rosetta Brown, and Bertha Wakler. He also leaves to cherish his memories one daughter in law Debora, one goddaughter Coretta, three grandsons James (Sandra), Brandon, and Jamar (Leslie), six great grandchildren Eden, Jamar Jr., Logan, Lucas, Doy, and Teddy, and a host of other family and friends.