Wayne Lewis

Wayne Isaac Lewis was born on April 13, 1957, in Valhalla, NY, to John and Mary (Evans) Lewis. Raised in a God-fearing home, Wayne was deeply influenced by the teachings of his mother and grandmother. He attended the White Plains Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he developed both his love for God and his lifelong connection to music.

At age eight, Wayne sang his first duet with his brother David. By ten, the two were studying classical piano under Juilliard-trained instructor Wilma Machover, a faculty member at the Westchester Conservatory of Music.

Wayne attended Central 7 Schools, where he excelled in theater, chorus, and jazz band. Under the guidance of influential mentors including Miss Barbara Feller, Mr. Ellington, and Miss Evelyn LaRue Pitman—renowned for her work with Marian Anderson—Wayne refined his stage presence and musicality. He notably portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Pitman’s national production Freedom Child.

In high school, Wayne joined the band Unchained Youth with his brother David and friends William Lazarus, Roland Harris, Koran Daniels, and Gene Fafley. His professional career began in December 1975, when he, David, and Sharon Bryant joined older brother Jonathan Lewis and friends in the group Newban to perform in the Swiss Alps. Shortly after, the group was invited to perform in Los Angeles for The Spinners’ 25th Anniversary celebration. They decided to stay and pursue a recording contract.

Within 18 months, the nine-member group signed with A&M Records. The lineup included Sharon Bryant (vocals), Porter Carroll Jr. (drums), Clifford Archer (bass), Joseph Phillips (percussion/flute), David Lewis (vocals/guitar), Wayne Lewis (keyboards/vocals), Jonathan Lewis (keyboards/trombone), William Sudderth III (trumpet), and saxophonists Damon Rentie and Koran Daniels. Later, Barbara Weathers, Rachel Oliver, Porcha Martin, and current vocalist Melessa Pierce would step into the role of lead female vocalist.

In 1978, Atlantic Starr released their debut album, featuring the single “Stand Up,” written by Wayne. Over the next several years, the band recorded five more albums with A&M, collaborating with legendary producers Bobby Eli and James Anthony Carmichael. Wayne’s songwriting stood out on fan favorites such as “When Love Calls,” “Circles,” and “Touch a Four Leaf Clover.” His smooth lead vocal on the beloved ballad “Send For Me” became an intsant classic.

The group’s sixth A&M album, As the Band Turns, featured two of their most iconic songs: “Secret Lovers” and “If Your Heart Isn’t In It,” both written, performed, and produced by Wayne and David.
In 1986, the Lewis brothers signed with Warner Bros. Records. Their debut release under the label, All in the Name of Love, featured the chart-topping #1 pop single “Always,” written by Jonathan, Wayne, and David. Their next album, We’re Movin’ Up, included another #1 R&B hit, “My First Love,” written and sung by Wayne and David. Their final Warner Bros. release, Love Crazy, featured the singles “Love Crazy” and “Masterpiece,” both written and/or produced by Wayne and David.

In 1994, Atlantic Starr joined Arista Records under Clive Davis, releasing their tenth studio album Time. After David’s departure, Wayne and Jonathan continued carrying the band’s legacy into the next decade. In the early 2000s, Wayne shifted focus toward a new calling: Atop The Mountain Ministries, a family ministry that became his passion and purpose.

Wayne and Jonathan released two final albums together: All Because of You in 2005 and Metamorphosis in 2016. Wayne continued to tour internationally, sharing his voice, testimony, and enduring love for music.

Wayne passed away suddenly on the evening of June 5, 2025, after collapsing while working out at the gym. EMS personnel were unable to revive him.

He is survived by his siblings:
Sophie Ward, Jonathan Lewis, Joyce Daniels, Toni Lewis, David Lewis, Steven Lewis, Gennieve Stennett, and June Carter; Sisters-in-law Marian Lewis and Phillis Lewis; brother-in-law Ernest Daniels.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Mary (Evans) Lewis, and siblings Christopher Rolle, Shirley Anthon, John Lewis Jr., Joanna Taylor, and Arlene Johnson.

He also leaves behind a host of aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

Wayne meant the world not only to his immediate family, but to his global family—fans, peers, and loved ones alike. His legacy lives on in the music he created and the joy he gave so freely to our world.

There will be a three-day memorial event spanning multiple locations and times. Each day serves a different purpose in our celebration of life, and you are welcome to attend any or all portions that feel meaningful to you. Space is limited, so an RSVP is mandatory. Specific locations and detailed timing for each day are as follows.

Event Link for Viewing and Celebration of Life Services
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-the-life-of-wayne-lewis-three-day-memorial-service-tickets-1428651879229?aff=oddtdtcreator

June 28, 2025, Saturday - Viewing & Visitation (4PM - 7PM)
Christ Temple Greater International Church, 25 Oak Street, White Plains, NY 10603

June 29, 2025, Sunday - Memorial Service & Repass (1PM - 7PM)
Woodlands Middle & High School 475 Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale, NY 10530

June 30, 2025, Monday - Burial Service 11:30am (No RSVP Needed)
Ferncliff Cemetery 280 Secor Road, Hartsdale, NY 10530

"In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to two ministry organizations that were deeply meaningful to Wayne Lewis. Wayne cared passionately about the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of others, and these ministries reflect the heart of his values. Contributions made in his honor will continue the legacy of service, healing, and love that he carried throughout his life.

The Wilderness Mission is one of these organizations. Its mission is to help individuals reconnect with God through time in nature, spiritual reflection, and physical renewal. Donations support wilderness retreats, mentoring, and discipleship programs that encourage personal transformation. To contribute, please visit www.thewildernessmission.org and use the “Donate with PayPal” option.

3 Measures Vegetarian and MMHealthline is a mother-daughter ministry led by Roena and Rosita Parker. As longtime friends of the Lewis family, they have lovingly prepared plant-based meals for many Camp Ministry events and family gatherings over the years. Their ministry has expanded to include wedding catering, feeding the homeless, supporting local churches and neighborhood programs, and offering health education through cooking and outreach. Their mission centers on sharing God’s love through hospitality and nutritious food. They are currently working to establish a plant-based farm that will bring fresh produce to urban communities while training young people in farming, cooking, and service. Donations to support their work can be made at: paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=F2GCLWSEMUULC"