Christiana A. Lewis passed away at her home in South Orange on Sunday, August 30, 2026. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend whose life was marked by a quiet devotion to her family and many years of compassionate service to others.
Christiana was born in St. Vincent, West Indies. She spent part of her early life there then migrated to Trinidad where she married Tyrell Lewis. Later she would live in St. Croix before emigrating to the United States. She lived in Newark and the Oranges before making South Orange her home 23 years ago.
Christiana dedicated 35 years of her professional life to caring for others in nursing at Overlook Hospital in Summit. Her commitment to her patients and her caring nature were a meaningful part of her life and legacy. One of her passions was cooking for her family especially her bread making and holiday dinners. Chris loved her church especially the community she found at Christ Church in East Orange. There she devoted almost every Sunday to attending mass and teaching Sunday School. No one could forget her coffee hour that included food of every West Indian Island.
She was predeceased by her beloved son, Wayne Davis and ex-husband, Tyrell Lewis.
Christiana is survived by her daughters, Olivia Lewis-Chang (Michael), Carol Lewis, Shireen Lewis (Montina), and Yvette Porter-Lee (Leo); her grandchildren, Wendy Athenas-Romulus, Wesley Davis, Adam Chang, Cassandra Chang; great granddaughters Aurora and Hope Chang; step grandson Obrian Lewis, extended family and friends who will cherish her memory.
Chris will be remembered for her quiet strength, loving spirit, dedication to her family, and the many lives she touched throughout her years.
In lieu of flowers donations to Immigration Defense Project (IDP) and Overlook Foundation would be appreciated.
Do not think of me as gone away,
I am the light at the break of day. I am the scent of the rain-washed earth,
I am the cycle of death and birth.
I am the bloom on your favorite rose,
I am the quiet breeze when it blows.
Step into the garden, breathe the air-
You will find me waiting there.
