Kenneth F. "Kenny" Lewis

Kenneth F. Lewis, 55, a longtime resident of Ayer, died unexpectedly due to complications from surgery on January 19, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Brighton, MA. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose kindness, humor, and infectious spirit touched the lives of all who knew him.

Kenny battled Systemic Lupus Erythematosus for over 20 years, having to spend the last 4.5 years on dialysis while waiting for a kidney transplant. His resilience and optimism were evident in everything he did, and he continued to bring joy and laughter to his family and friends despite his struggles.

Kenny was born in Chicopee, Massachusetts on May 27, 1969, to the late Kenneth E. and Janet S. Lewis (Ferguson). He was a 1987 graduate of Ayer High School. Kenny had many fond memories of his time spent living in Bitburg, Germany and Fort Ord, California before his family moved to Fort Devens Army Base, and permanently settling in Ayer.

Kenny’s pride and joy were his four children. He could often be found cheering on his sons Kevin and little Kenny at their games, sharing a laugh and some gossip with his daughters Maia and Rachel, or bragging about them to anyone who would listen. His love for his children was immeasurable, and they were his greatest accomplishment.

Kenny was proud to be a member of the “Boozehounds” flag football team, where everyone referred to him as “The Street Sweeper.” Kenny and his longtime friend, Joe Sargent, owned and operated The Total Package, Building and Remodeling, Inc for many years before going to work for the Ayer Public Schools in the custodial department. Kenny has been the Groundskeeper at the Ayer Shirley Regional High School for the past 6 years.

Kenny leaves behind his beloved wife of 30 years, Amanda U. Lewis; son Kevin E. Lewis and “daughter-in-law” Morgan S. Tormey of Hudson, MA; his daughters Maia A., Rachel L., and son Kenneth J. Lewis all of Ayer, MA; sisters, Melissa A. Tom, her husband Dale Tom of Gardner, MA, Jennifer R. Gibbons, her fiancée Eric Prentiss of Templeton, MA; niece Sarah E. Gibbons; nephews, Cody J. and Wyatt J. Tom; Cousins Lisa Messina Funicella, Carl Messina, and Gino Messina, all of Lynn, MA, and Richard Lewis of Taunton, MA; family member Kenneth P. Mildren of Athol, MA, and mother-in-law Cynthia A. Newland of Harvard, MA.

In addition to his family, Kenny’s work ethic and loyalty to his community earned him deep respect from colleagues and friends. Whether at work or at home, his integrity and strong sense of humor were evident, making him a joy to be around. Kenny’s legacy will live on in the countless memories he created with family and friends, and his infectious smile and laughter will never be forgotten.

Visiting hours for Kenny will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St. (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Saturday, January 25th from 1 – 4 pm. A celebration of life will be held in honor of Kenny from 5-8 pm, the same evening, at American Legion Post 183, 8 Church Street, Shirley, MA, 01464. Family and friends are welcome to gather and share their memories of Kenny.

Memorial contributions can be made to The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) or the American Kidney Fund.