In Loving Memory of Baby Richard Jay Lewis

My name is Stephanie Lewis, and I’m reaching out to share the heartbreaking story of my nephew, Richard “R.J.” Jay Lewis.

On July 29th, 2025, my brother and sister-in-law went to the hospital overjoyed and ready to welcome their healthy baby boy into the world. They had been told throughout the pregnancy that everything was normal. The nursery was ready. Tiny clothes were washed and folded. They had dreamed of the day they would bring him home.

But life had a different plan. Shortly after birth, doctors discovered R.J. was facing serious complications caused by a rare chromosome issue — something no one knew until that moment. He was immediately taken to the NICU at Cox Hospital, where a compassionate and skilled team of doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to save him.

For two precious days, R.J. fought bravely. He was deeply loved every second of his short life. On July 31st, 2025, our sweet boy gained his angel wings.

This unimaginable loss has left my brother’s family heartbroken and struggling to cope — not only emotionally, but financially. They’ve missed work during this devastating time, and the costs have been overwhelming:

• Hospital and NICU bills

• Cremation and funeral services

• A headstone for R.J.’s resting place

• Counseling for their two young daughters, who are grieving their baby brother

• Meals and help covering household expenses during this time of grief

While the rest of the world keeps moving, their lives feel like they have stopped. I want to help them focus on healing without the crushing weight of financial stress.

If you are able, any donation — no matter the size — will make a difference. Even sharing this fundraiser will help more than you know.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading R.J.’s story, for holding our family in your thoughts, and for helping us honor his short but beautiful life.

Rest in peace, sweet R.J.