News Summary
Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. celebrated his 100th birthday in Smithfield, Alabama, showcasing his incredible journey of achievements, community engagement, and humility. Known for establishing the first Black-owned public relations agency in the U.S., he has made a lasting impact on Birmingham’s business landscape. Dr. Lewis’s life story inspires many, reflecting hard work, resilience, and a commitment to service.
Celebrating a Century: Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. Marks 100 Years of Life in Smithfield
In the heart of Smithfield, Alabama, a remarkable man recently reached a major milestone—100 years of life and outstanding achievement. Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. celebrated this momentous occasion on January 3, 2025, proving that age is just a number when you have a heart full of dreams and a mind eager to learn.
A Life Well Lived
Dr. Lewis has spent nearly 50 years in his comfortable home in Smithfield, where he still actively engages with his community and nurtures his passions. Known for his longevity and good health, he attributes much of his vitality to a life of hard work and stamina. Interestingly, despite his wife’s desire to throw him a grand birthday bash, Dr. Lewis opted out of a formal celebration. His humility and down-to-earth nature have always been a part of his charming character.
A Towering Figure in Business
Dr. Lewis is not just a centenarian; he is a business legend! With an impressive total of five academic degrees, including a doctorate, he has left his mark on the business scene in Birmingham. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own or manage an impressive 17 businesses throughout the years. His ventures covered a diverse range, from real estate and music publishing to radio stations and night clubs. He was also a major player in launching The Birmingham Times newspaper in 1963, which he operated until 2015.
Breaking Barriers and Making History
One of Dr. Lewis’s most significant achievements was establishing the first Black-owned public relations and advertising agency in the United States back in 1954. His agency attracted big names, including Coca-Cola, who became one of his first clients. Dr. Lewis made history as the first Black individual to represent Coca-Cola in a national advertisement, paving the way for future generations in advertising and marketing.
A Legacy of Recognition
His contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Dr. Lewis received well-deserved recognition by being inducted into the University of Alabama’s Communication Hall of Fame. The previous year, he was also honored by the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame. Furthermore, he was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Vulcan Park Foundation in 2022 and became a member of the Birmingham Business Hall of Fame in 2019.
From Humble Beginnings to Leadership
But Dr. Lewis’s journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up in rural Alabama during the tumultuous Great Depression, he faced adversity and discrimination. His strong moral foundation, instilled by his beloved grandmother, shaped his life and led him to a career of service and community engagement. Despite facing numerous challenges, he dropped out of school after the 10th grade to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he returned, completed his education at Miles College, and jumped into the world of business.
A Family Man
In his personal life, Dr. Lewis has seen both joy and sorrow. He married his late wife, Helen, in 1949 and shared their lives until her passing in 2016. In 2023, he found love again with Brenda Dickerson, and their bond has grown through shared interests and stimulating conversations. Together, they enjoy a simple life filled with love and companionship.
A Role Model
Today, Dr. Lewis is a respected figure in Birmingham’s history, often approached by community members who express gratitude for his contributions. His daily routine includes enjoying a hearty breakfast with his wife, putting in hours at his tech center, and keeping a healthy sleep schedule by turning in early. His remarkable intellect remains sharp and is only matched by his heartfelt connection with those around him.
As Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr. continues to flourish in his century-long journey, his life serves as an inspiration to all, embodying hard work, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to community and family. Here’s to many more years of achievement, wisdom, and love!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham’s Major Makeover Planned for 2025
Birmingham Marks 100 Years of Inspiration from Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr.
Additional Resources
- Alabama News Center: Celebrating Dr. Jesse J. Lewis Sr.
- MSN: A Birmingham Civil Rights Icon Turns 100
- AL.com: Jesse J. Lewis Sr. Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
- Wikipedia: Jesse J. Lewis Sr.
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jesse J. Lewis Sr.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
