Harry Dean Lewis, better known as Boss, left an indelible mark within the Houston Independent School District and the Kashmere Gardens community. He was born on March 29, 1955, to the late Dan Lewis and the late Ernestine Leggett. He was the sixth child of eight children and grew up in a Christian home. He attended JC McDade Elementary, Key Junior High, and Kashmere Senior High. While attending Kashmere, he discovered his love for basketball and formed many lasting friendships. His greatest accomplishment was being on the talented boys’ basketball team who was undefeated and eventually crowned Texas State Champions in 1974. They were the initial roster for consecutive state championships that led to a dominant streak from 1974 -1976. As a graduate of the class of ’74, Harry was considered the ultimate teammate who lauded for the team’s success more than his own personal accomplishments.
After graduation, he earned a basketball scholarship to Paris Junior College and became a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. He represented his achievement and was committed to helping others. Harry returned to his childhood roots and made many contributions to enrich his community. He began his professional career as a machinist, working with several companies before discovering his true passion—landscaping. This newfound love allowed him to establish his own business, DAL Craftsman Lawn. Known for his precision and keenness, Harry consistently turned ordinary yards into lush, green landscapes that were the envy of the neighborhood.
Harry lived a life towering with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to God. He treasured the meaningful relationships he built throughout his journey, and he accepted his divine calling into ministry in 1990. In 2001, he began pastoring Camp Ruby Outreach. He faithfully ministered to both the saved and the unsaved in the Settegast community, pouring his heart into the church and its people. Camp Ruby was more than a ministry—it was his passion, his purpose, and his extended family.
On May 19, 2025, Harry “Boss” Lewis departed this life — but not without entering a hall of fame filled with cherished memories and true reflections of love, faith, and dedicated service. His memory serves as an inspiration to all who knew him, and he will be fondly remembered for his warm heart and infectious sense of humor. The most meaningful, lasting impact was enjoyed by his wife, children, grandchildren, and siblings who thank him for being the stronghold of their family connections.
