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Birmingham Marks 100 Years of Inspiration from Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr.

The Birmingham community comes together to celebrate a centennial milestone.

News Summary

As Birmingham gears up to celebrate Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr.’s 100th birthday, the community reflects on his remarkable journey of resilience and leadership. A former president of Lawson State Community College and an influential businessman, Dr. Lewis has shaped numerous local enterprises and empowered many through education and philanthropy. Despite personal tragedies, his dedication to community upliftment remains unwavering. The city prepares for a heartfelt celebration of a life well-lived and a legacy that continues to inspire.

Birmingham Celebrates a Century of Inspiration: Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. Turns 100!

As we near January 3, 2025, the city of Birmingham is preparing to mark a remarkable milestone — the 100th birthday of a true icon, Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. Residing in charming Smithfield, Alabama, in a cozy home he has cherished for nearly half a century, Dr. Lewis reflects on a century filled with achievements, resilience, and a deep commitment to his community.

Leadership and Business Acumen

Dr. Lewis believes strongly in the power of stamina and hard work. A high school dropout who faced numerous challenges, he reinvented his life through education, earning five degrees, including a doctorate. His leadership journey led him to serve as president of Lawson State Community College from 1978 to 1987, shaping the future of countless students along the way. Throughout his extensive career, he has made an indelible mark on at least 17 Birmingham businesses, spanning diverse sectors such as real estate, music publishing, media, and even a golf course.

One of his groundbreaking endeavors was establishing The Birmingham Times newspaper in 1963. This publication was a platform for voices in the community, promoting transparency and dialogue until it transitioned to new ownership in 2015. A trailblazer in public relations, Dr. Lewis opened the first Black-owned advertising agency in the U.S. back in 1954, where Coca-Cola became one of his earliest clients. Remarkably, he crafted the very first advertisement featuring a Black individual for this iconic brand!

A Lifetime of Recognition

Dr. Lewis’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, he proudly took his place in the University of Alabama’s Communication Hall of Fame, a testament to his lasting influence on media and communication. Last year, he was celebrated with an induction into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame. Moreover, in 2022, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Vulcan Park Foundation. His impact was further solidified in 2019 when he became a member of the Birmingham Business Hall of Fame.

A Day in the Life of Dr. Lewis

Even at the age of 100, Dr. Lewis enjoys a routine that emphasizes well-being. Typically, he rises around 9 to 9:30 a.m. and shares a hearty breakfast with his wife, Brenda. His office at the Jesse J. Lewis Jr. Tech Center or his sunlit porch often serves as his workspace, where he continues to brainstorm ways to uplift his community. To him, helping out is not just a duty but a passion, and he delights in making charitable contributions whenever opportunity strikes.

Dr. Lewis has faced personal tragedies, losing both of his sons and his first wife, Helen, who passed away in 2016. However, he has found love again with Brenda Dickerson, whom he married on February 4, 2023, marking a new chapter in his life. They share not just a home but a devotion to one another, despite differing views on how to celebrate his big 100th birthday — he prefers a quiet celebration, while Brenda dreams of a grand gathering.

A Legacy of Resilience and Generosity

Born as Jesse James Terror in Northport, Alabama, Dr. Lewis spent his early years being nurtured by his grandmother, an inspiring woman who, despite her inability to read or write, instilled values of perseverance. He briefly left school to serve his country from 1942-1945, where he kicked off his first business. His impressive academic journey later included accolades from Miles College, Troy State University, and Clark Atlanta University.

Dr. Lewis has always been dedicated to assisting others, both financially and emotionally. He typically retires between 6 and 7 p.m., unless a thrilling sports game keeps him up later. As Birmingham prepares to celebrate this remarkable man, his story continues to inspire many, reminding us that determination and kindness can truly shape a community.