Johnny Duane Lewis

On June 15, 2023 John D. Lewis harnssed his best team of draft mules and raced his chariot to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. "Johnny" was born on March 26, 1943 in Exeter, California to John A. and Virginia Lewis. His parents instilled in him a love for mule skinning, the backcountry, farming, hunting, and rodeo. John graduated from Tulare Union High School in 1961, and attended college of the Sequoias until his love for riding led him to the love of his life, Visalia Rockette, Joyce Iskenderian. They married on March 18, 1962 and galloped through life together, traveling across the country perveying the finest draft mules, building their beautiful ranch, and most importantly they brought into the world two sons, John W. and Scott, to whom they passed down their various passions and gifts. As a family they worked to build ACME Portable Toilets and ACME Mule Company. Family leisure time was spent enjoying hunting trips and packing into the backcountry on saddle back.

                      Johnny never held back on the reins of life but enjoyed working his mules, spending time on his beloved mountain property and tending to Lewis Ranch. Every year he looked forward to Bishop Mule Days, where he brought home 1st Place in various competitions well into his seventies. 

                     John D devoted his life to the Lord Jesus and was an integral part of Farmersville Freewill Baptist Church. His brothers and sisters in Christ will remember him for bringing joy, laughter and his deep knowledge of the Word of God to the congregation.

John D is survived by his dedicated wife Joyce, two sons John W. Lewis (Chrystal), and Scott Lewis (Marcy). Siblings June Canby (Steve), Sandy Ballard, Randy Lewis (Diane), He leaves behind three grandchildren whom he loved dearly; Paxton, John E. and Grace. His family will remember him for his moral compass, undying strength, wit, devotion to God and unconditional love for his family. Services will be held at Smith Family Chapel in Exeter on Friday, June 23, 2023 at 12:30 P.M.. directly following the service will be a committal at the Exeter Cemetery. There will be a Celebration of John Ds life held at the Farmersville Freewill Baptist Church, 239 S. Dode Ave., Farmersville  immediately following services. 

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