Rickey Edward Lewis better known as "Teddy Bear" was born September 26, 1954 in Huntsville, AL to the late Rev. George Franklin Sr. and Arnettia Lewis Franklin of Huntsville and the late Rev. James Humphrey of Berkley, AL. He departed this life on Monday October 1, 2007 at Huntsville Hospital. God called him to rest from his labor.
Rickey confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and joined St. Ruth P. B. Church. He later moved his membership to Oak Grove C.M.E. Church where he worked faithfully until his health began to fail. His greatest passion was working with children and football. Coach Teddy Bear is what his players called him. Rickey never met a stranger; he wore a smile on his face everyday.
In the 70's he was known as the dancing machine. The Robot and Moonwalk were his favorite dances. Sports of course was his passion. He loved a good competition, therefore any event that announced a winner or first place that was Rickey. If you were looking for a competitor, Bear was your man.
He leaves to cherish his memories. two children: Christopher L. Lewis (Yolanda) of Madison, AL, Tiffany Nicole Lewis of Huntsville, AL; four grandsons Jaylan, Try, Gavin, and Joshua; four sisters: Ziria Tanner, Emma Battles, Ann Malone, and Pamela Byers (Larry)all of Huntsville, AL; five brothers: Martin Lewis, Danny Humphrey, Timothy Humphrey (Terrie) all os Huntsville, AL, Travis Humphrey of New Orleans, LA and Rev George Franklin Jr. who preceded in death. One sister-in-law, Victoria Price (Billy) of Carson, MS; one brother-in-law, Oscar Dean Davis, Jr. of Huntsville, AL. Special friends Janice Elliott, Earl Parker, Thomas Wellington of Huntsville, AL. A host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral services for Rickey "Bear" Lewis will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday from the Phillips C.M.E. Church with Reverend Ophelia Davis as Eulogist. Interment will be in Valley View Memorial Gardens, Nelms Memorial Funeral Home handling the services. The remains will be in the church one hour prior to funeral time.