Born C. Cornelia Blount in Berkeley, Virginia, Mrs. Lewis moved to Lackawanna in 1928 with her family. Her first job was as a caretaker at Our Lady of Victory Hospital in Lackawanna, followed by employment as an assembly worked at General Electric and Trico Corporation. In 1965, she began working as a sheriff's deputy, retiring in 1981.
During the 1950s and 60s, Mrs. Lewis was active in the Buffalo political community, providing support and hosting events for local politicians in her home. She also was a member of Esther Court No. 9, Heroines of Jericho, and Eureka Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. She was a Past Matron of Paramount Chapter 57, Order of the Eastern Star.
Mrs. Lewis was honored with a citation by the Buffalo Common Council in recognition o her service to the community. Her husband of 36 years, Robert Lee, Sr. died in 1974. They had three daughters, Barbara J., Carolyn A. Hunter and Marva L. and two sons, Robert Lee, Jr. and Rodney C.
