Jolene Lewis, age 78

June 4, 1946 – May 29, 2025

Jolene Lewis, age 78, of Cave in Rock, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at 3:55 PM - Thursday May 29, 2025, at her home.

Private family services will be held.  In loving memory of Jolene, memorials may be made to the animal shelter of your choice.  Cards can be mailed to the Lewis Family, 4 Beaver Hill Road, Cave in Rock, Illinois 62919.  Arrangements are under the care of Meyer Funeral Home in Olney, Illinois.  The obituary can be viewed and condolences left at www.meyerfh.com.

Jolene was born in Harrisburg, Illinois, on June 4, 1946, to the late Joe and Juanita (Farmer) Barnes.  In her younger years, you could find her boating and skiing on the Ohio River and spending time with family on the sand bar.  On May 14, 1977, she married Michael Lewis, and they spent 48 wonderful years together.  Together, they farmed, raised cattle and hogs, and owned a trucking company.  Jolene was an animal lover and would often make friends with the livestock.  She even bottle-fed baby pigs and raised a baby calf in the backyard.  She enjoyed being outside tending to their garden and working in her beautiful flower beds.  She was an excellent cook and loved preparing large family meals for her loved ones and friends.  Later in life, Michael & Jolene became avid trap shooters.  She earned the nickname of Annie Oakley and was extremely competitive, winning several trophies along the way.

On December 5, 2022, Jolene suffered a stroke and battled the aftereffects until her passing.  Even through multiple hospital stays and therapy, she remained sassy and bossy, always doing things her own way.

Jolene is survived by her loving husband, Michael.  Daughter Kelli Jo and her husband Stan.  Son Scott and his wife Joyce.  Grandchildren, Stephani and her husband Chris, Brandon and his wife Kaitlyn.  Great-Grandchildren, Hadley and Greyson.  Grand-Dogs, Letti and Pearl, who she would've spoiled rotten.

Jolene was preceded in death by her Parents, Joe & Juanita Barnes, Brother Tommy, Father-in-Law Wayman, Special Cousin Rodney, who referred to her as Little Momma.  We know she was greeted at the Pearly Gates by her precious fur-children: Sugar, Baby, Bear, Molly and fur-grandchildren: Sami & Riley.

The family wishes to extend much appreciation to Hospice of Southern Illinois, Dr..Chatto and Staff, and caretakers Marla, Charlie, and Byron for the excellent care they all provided to Jolene.  You will all hold a special place in our hearts.