Obituary of Hainsley Everton Lewis

On Saturday, March 20, 2021, Hainsley Everton Lewis, dearly loved father of four, was called home at the age of 85.

Hainsley was born in Barbados on September 11, 1935 to Doris (Lewis) Stewart and George Beresford Burnett. While in Barbados, Hainsley worked as a skilled furniture maker until he emigrated to the USA in 1979 to become a caregiver for his mother who resided in Massachusetts. 

Hainsley moved to Columbia, South Carolina in 2001 to be close to his brother, Riley, who was diagnosed with cancer. It was in Columbia where he became an advocate for the youth of the community. He was passionate about giving the youth an opportunity to live a life free of crime. He was an integral force in forming the Lincolnshire / Keith Cannon Youth Organization where he served in different capacities for 14 years. Hainsley dedicated his time mainly ensuring the success of the Back to School Bash, all for the kids of the community.

Hainsley was also passionate about his family, friends and neighbors. He loved to cook and enjoyed sharing his famous peas and rice and stir fried vegetables with all. He derived great happiness seeing others’ delight in his food. 

Hainsley is preceded in death by his grandmother, Bri; his parents, George and Doris; sister, Carmen; and brothers: Riley, Winfield, and Victor, three of the four amigos.

He is survived by his two sons: Richard, who resides in Barbados, and Rene from Boston, MA; his two daughters: Monita from Columbia, SC, and Cynthia from Boston, MA; six grandchildren: Nyah, Jair, Reggie, Tia, Antonio and Jason; and two great-grands, Tianna and Tyleik. He also leaves behind his brothers: Harry, Seibert and Leonard; and sisters: Peggy, Lydia and Alynda; dedicated niece, Althea; and several nieces and nephews.

Being such a beloved person, he was adopted as Dad by Andrea, Jan, Winston, Annette and dear friend, Tom. He will also be dearly missed by his friend and Back to School Bash partner, Miss Pat, and his dear friends and neighbors.A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 11:00 A.M at Thompson Funeral Home at Greenlawn Memorial Park, located at 845 Leesburg Road, Columbia SC 29209. You are invited to participate via life stream by clicking here or https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/95546494