Richard Lewis
Funeral Service: October 25, 2026
Notes:
Richard Jay Lewis
1936–2026
Richard Jay Lewis, 90, of New York City and New Milford, Connecticut, passed away on October 20, 2026, leaving behind a loving family, countless friends, and a remarkable legacy of kindness, generosity, and genuine human connection.
To know Richard was to experience a man whose warmth and sincerity were unmistakable. Kind, caring, engaging, and endlessly approachable, Richard had a remarkable gift for making everyone he encountered feel welcome and valued. Whether speaking with a lifelong friend or striking up a conversation with a complete stranger, he had an easy, disarming manner that inevitably brought smiles, laughter, and a sense of connection. He didn’t simply enjoy meeting people; he genuinely enjoyed getting to know them. Those fortunate enough to cross his path invariably came away feeling better for the experience.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Richard was the only child of the late Albert and Harriet Lewis. He grew up surrounded by the love and attention of his many aunts and uncles. He served in the National Guard, receiving an honorable discharge in 1959, and subsequently earned his accounting degree from Baruch College and became a Certified Public Accountant.
Richard enjoyed a successful career in accounting, spending much of his professional life as Controller of Russ Togs, then one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of women’s clothing. He brought the same integrity, dedication, and genuine interest in others to his professional relationships that characterized every aspect of his life.
Richard had a lifelong love of travel, a deep commitment to his Jewish faith, and an unwavering desire to give back to his community. He generously volunteered his time to numerous organizations and causes, taking active roles in the temples and coalitions with which he was associated. His faith was not simply something he practiced; its values of kindness, generosity, and service were reflected in the way he lived his life.
Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Lois, whom he met in 1975 and married in the years that followed. He was the devoted father of Dr. Gayle Lewis and David Lewis, and father-in-law to David’s wife of more than 37 years, Wendy. He was a proud Poppa (grandfather) to Alexandra (Lewis) Tringali and Matthew Lewis, grandfather-in-law to Alexandra’s husband, Michael Tringali, and a delighted great-grandfather to their son, Miles Emmit Tringali.
Yet for all his professional accomplishments, community involvement, and personal interests, nothing brought Richard greater joy than his family. He led an amazing and loving life with Lois, his wife and partner. He took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, enthusiastically sharing their successes with anyone willing to listen. He celebrated their milestones as though they were his own, offering encouragement, admiration, and unconditional support at every turn. Simply put, Richard was their greatest champion.
Perhaps Richard’s greatest legacy is the example he set for the generations who follow him. He demonstrated through his actions that a meaningful life is measured not merely by professional success or personal achievement, but by the kindness one extends to others, the relationships one nurtures, and the love and encouragement one gives so freely.
Richard had an extraordinary ability to make people feel special. In return, he was deeply loved by those who knew him. His family will forever cherish his warmth, his laughter, his unwavering support, and the tremendous pride he took in each of them.
He will be profoundly missed, lovingly remembered, and celebrated through the countless lives he touched.
Funeral and Shiva Arrangements
A private graveside funeral will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Family and friends are invited to gather for Shiva on Sunday, October 25, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Temple Sinai of Stamford, 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford, Connecticut. A Celebration of Richard’s Life will take place at 6:00 p.m., followed by a brief service.
An additional Shiva gathering will be held on Monday, October 26, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Bridgewater Fellowship Hall, 10 Clapboard Road, Bridgewater, Connecticut.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard’s memory may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society at https://www.nationalmssociety.org/.