Kay Anthony Lewis

On December 7, 2022 the Honorable Judge Kay Anthony Lewis was called home to the Lord in Lakeside, Arizona at the age 86. Judge Lewis was born on April 20, 1936 in Cibecue, Arizona to his parents the late, Robert and Mary (Gilson) Lewis.

He was a veteran of The United States Navy serving active duty during the Korean Conflict. Following his honorable discharge he began a storied career in the Judicial system.

He was the Chief Judge of the White Mountain Apache Tribe and also served as a Councilman for District I (Cibecue, Grasshopper and Oak Creek.) His other notable judicial positions included: Chief Magistrate for the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe in Needles, California, Chief Judge for the Havasupai Tribe at the Grand Canyon, held various pro-tempore judicial processes for different Indian Tribes throughout Arizona, Nevada and California and he served as Interpreter for the Federal Judicial System. In the courtroom, he was a defender and protector of justice, fairness, and tribal sovereignty.

Although his illustrious career in the judicial system was something he was very proud of, nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, godfather and friend.

He revered his Apache culture and traditions and regularly participated in traditional ceremonies. He had a passion for the outdoors and ranching and served as the President of the Oak Creek Cattle Association for many years and held dear friendships with those he met through his association. Our family finds comfort in knowing that we will see him again. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Lewis; grandchildren, Tiffany Lewis, Robert A. Lewis and Randy D. Kane; many great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews and his step-children, Benita Sebastian and Princess Varletta.

A viewing will be held Monday, December 19, 2022 from 8:00-11:00 A.M. at the Canyon Day Assembly of God Church in Canyon Day, Arizona. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 11:30 A.M. with the Funeral Service to follow.

Judge Lewis will be laid to rest at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Providence, Rhode Island.