Tributes

Bob Lewis was born in Abilene; his musical career began around the age of 11 when he picked up his first trumpet. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1943. He attended both Hardin-Simmons University and North Texas State University before being called into service by the Army in January 1945. He rose to the rank of Tech Sergeant and was among the first troops into occupied Japan. He left after two years and returned to Hardin-Simmons to graduate with a bachelor's degree in music in 1948 and eventually earned a master's degree in education from Our Lady of the Lake University. In that same year, Bob married Celeste (Lessie) Norvell. After working for one year as a music teacher at Sanderson and Abilene, he became band director of Hondo High School and stayed there for six years before joining the Northside Independent School District staff in 1957. Bob was a pivotal figure in the Northside Independent School District, serving as a music teacher and later as the director of fine arts for 33 years. He was instrumental in establishing and expanding the music programs, including orchestra, band and choir. During his time at Northside Independent School District, he enriched the lives of thousands of students and staff members. Bob is known throughout Northside Independent School District as "The Music Man." Bob retired in 1990. Throughout his career, he played in various bands, including the H.S.U. Cowboy Band and later played in the Abilene, San Angelo, and the San Antoinio symphonies, numerous dance and show bands, and directed the Hemisphere Marching Band. In 2001, Bob Lewis Elementary School opened. This enabled Bob to continue to be a part of a school district that he loved so much. He was honored and humbled. Bob was preceded in death by his wife Celeste Lewis, sons Christopher, Gregory. He is survived by his children: Theresa and Charles Espinoza, Mary Anna, David and Gloria Lewis and Gabriel and Teresa Lewis, 28 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. Bob’s greatest passions were love for Father God, love for his family and friends, love for this country and of course, love for music and laughter. May his memory live on as a song in our hearts forever. Flowers appreciated or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Bob Lewis to St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Tributes

Bob Lewis

August 6, 1926 - February 4, 2026