Richard Lewis was born in Montgomery, Alabama, and raised in Birmingham. One of three boys, Richard knew exactly what he wanted to 
do with his life, and starting laying the framework, at a very early age.
He enjoyed music and learned to play the saxophone, and at age fifteen, he eagerly accepted an opportunity; to play in the circus band, when it came to town.
Richard saw his chance to leave Birmingham.....and, against his mother's wishes, he left town to travel with the circus.
His travels took him many places and ultimately to Omaha, Ne. where he made his home, and began his lifelong affair with music. Richard was perfect for this lifestyle....he, was not only charming and debonair, but, extremely talented. Richard toured throughout the United States with some of the most popular bands of The Big Band Era, which included bands led by Lloyd Hunter, Nat Towles, Dan Desdune, and Cliff Dudley.
Richard was inspired by a number of jazz artists, including Dexter Gordon, Ben Webster, and Louis Jordan.
Early in his career, and during the depression, he played with the WPA-Sackhouse Band. The band always played at Union Station, prior to going on tour, and Richard could always be spotted playing with them.
He also performed with The Musician's Union Band, which was one of the main bands, leading the parades throughout the city.
Not only was Richard an accomplished saxophonist, he was proficient on flute, clarinet, piccolo, and English horn. Also, a fantastic vocalist.
People would come from miles around, to hear him sing, one of his favorite songs, "Laura". He played extended gigs throughout Omaha, including,The Plains Bar, with The Buddy Graves Trio, The Trocadero, and many clubs on Omaha's North and South side.
Music is definitely a "family affair" in the Lewis family. His wife, Camille, was also a gifted pianist,and vocalist. Richard introduced music,to all of his children,and encouraged them to take music lessons.
At one time or another, they have all played an instrument, or sang in various groups. However, two of his children, Richetta (Lewis) Wilson, a well known vocalist and Victor Lewis, a world renowned drummer, followed in his footsteps, and became professional musicians.
In his spare time, Richard also acted at the Omaha Playhouse, and was one of the first blacks to perform there. Active in the community, he was a long-time member of his church choir and was associated with numerous organizations, such as, The Omaha Federation of Musicians, American Association of Clef Club of Omaha, Jazz Society, He also volunteered with the Boy's Clubs of America, where he was a mentor to many of the young boys.
As, with most musician's, Richard's "Day Job" was at the Omaha National Bank, where he retired after 30 years. After retirement, Richard pursued some of his entrepreneurial interests, but, continued to play music, for private engagements.
In the late 80's, Richard moved to northern California. Although he was no longer able to play the music he so dearly loved, he continued to listen to live music at every opportunity, and started and ended every conversation talking about, this wonderful art form called jazz.
