Alice Faye Lewis

The story of Alice Faye Blanchard Lewis’s life is one of love, determination, faith, and devotion to family.

Born on January 25, 1956, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to Charles Frederick Blanchard and Laura Alice Gregory, Faye was the youngest of her mother’s eight children. After being orphaned at the age of three, she was lovingly raised by her foster family, the Abernathys, in Spartanburg. From an early age, she displayed the resilience, kindness, and warmth that would define her life.

After completing school, Faye began working at Phillips Fibers, a textile mill where she became known as a hardworking employee and a loyal friend to many. She married her first husband, Larry Hewitt, and together they welcomed two daughters, Nicky and Brandi. Faye was a loving and gregarious wife and mother who treasured time spent with her siblings, nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

Nothing brought Faye greater joy than her family. She was a devoted mother, proud "Nanny" to her grandchildren, and a cherished friend. Her daughters remember her as joyful, loving, and supportive, while her grandchildren knew her as the grandmother who poured her heart, time, and energy into making them feel loved and special. She celebrated every milestone, offered comfort during difficult times, and made family gatherings full of laughter and warmth.

In the early 1990s, Faye left her career in textiles due to chronic back pain and injury. Refusing to let her challenges define her, she became a full-time homemaker and dedicated herself to serving others. She volunteered at churches and hospitals and raised her daughters with joy, faith, and laughter. In 1999, she married Charles H. Lewis and continued her role as a homemaker while also becoming a devoted caregiver to her stepson, Michael.

Beyond her accomplishments, it was her character that left the deepest impression. She had a gift for making friends wherever she went and caring deeply for those around her. Her home was a welcoming place, her heart was open to all, and her generosity touched many lives.

After Charles passed away in 2018 following a long battle with cancer, Faye made the decision to move from South Carolina to Minnesota to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren. Alongside Michael, she made Dalton, Minnesota, her home and embraced new adventures, cherished holiday gatherings, and enjoyed dining out with family and friends. Even as dementia gradually affected her health, she remained positive and formed meaningful friendships at Maplewood Manor in Elbow Lake, where she received compassionate care and support.

Though her earthly journey came to an end on June 12, 2026, the story of her life continues through the family she nurtured and the friendships she treasured. Her legacy of love, strength, perseverance, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Faye is survived by her daughters, Nicky (Luis) Susana and Brandi (Tim) Petersen; and her seven adored grandchildren, Cierra (Austin), Dylan, Yasmin, Ayden, Victoria, Jordyn, and Greysen. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Larry Hewitt and Charles Lewis; and many beloved siblings who welcomed her home.

She will be deeply missed.

A Private family service will be held.

Erickson-Smith Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.