Eula Cushenberry Lewis, affectionally known as "Bessie" to her family, was born on November 18, 1944 to the late Nathan Bill Cushenberry, Jr. and Arnjal Smith Cushenberry. She was one of 13 children. She married Joe Ray Lewis on September 30, 1967. To this union four (4) children were born, Felita (deceased), Damacia, Erica and Damian. She was called home to rest on Friday May 16, 2025 at her residence in Gonzales, LA.

She was a 1962 graduate of Prairieville High School. She attended Southern University where she obtained her Bachelor's of Education Degree. She was a passionate teacher. She made it a point to make sure all of her students were fully equipped with skills they needed to succeed. She started her teaching career in Miami, FL before returning back to LA, where she began a 32 year teaching career with Ascension Parish School Board, teaching 6th grade English at Gonzales Middle School from where she retired.

Eula was baptized at an early age by the late Rev. McKinley Smith, at Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church where she sang in the choir. She has been working for the Lord for a very long time. Combining her love for God and children, she has served as the Youth Director and Choir member at Little Zion Missionary Baptist Church, until changing membership and serving at the New St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Paul Murray until God called her home.

Eula leaves to cherish her memories, her husband of 57 years, Joe Ray Lewis. Three (3) children: Damacia (Rydell), Erica and Damian (Lindsey). Seven (7) grandchildren, four (4) sisters: Willie Lee Allen, Rev. Rosa Hambrick, Atlanta, Ga, Rev. Clementine Cushenberry, and Evangelist Joycelyn Cushenberry. Four (4) Godchildren: Pamela Scott, Jerry Raven, Bertrelle Williams, and Shamory Favorite.

Eula was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, a Godchild, 10 siblings and spouses, Mother and Father in-law, Nine (9) sister and brothers in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.