Dr. Leslie B. Lewis

Dr. Leslie B. Lewis, beloved husband of Arlene (nee Pollack, married June 28, 1969), father of Stephanie and Daniel (Lisa), and grandfather of his adored grandson Jordan, passed away at home on September 16, 2026.

Les was born in Brooklyn, New York on June 22, 1947.  He graduated from Erasmus Hall High School and then the State University of New York at Buffalo with a degree in Chemistry.  Of course, that was only the beginning of his commitment to education – both to his own and others.  Les began briefly as a classroom teacher, but it was not long before his true gift as an educator was revealed in administration.  After receiving two master’s degrees, Les ultimately earned his doctorate in education from SUNY Albany at only 26 years old.

From there, Dr. Lewis dedicated his entire career to the children of the Cheektowaga Central School District in western New York.  Hired first as an assistant principal, he was quickly named its high school principal, and then in 1987 was named the then-youngest, and later longest-tenured superintendent of schools ever in the district.  During that time, Les was a visionary regarding investment in emerging technology.  His efforts (among so many others) included ensuring computers were in classrooms long before it was clear to many that such machines were not a privilege, but a necessity for students' long term success.  Dr. Lewis pushed tirelessly for academic excellence until his retirement. 

During both of their time as educators, Les and Arlene had so much fun with each other, they could often be found in far away places with kids on school trips.  So it was no surprise that upon retirement, the two took off to see the world together. Over the next few decades, Les and Arlene covered six continents, continuing to learn, to make friends and to make memories spanning the globe. Everywhere he went, Les brought warmth and laughter and joy to those around him.  He was and remains a model of integrity, decency and kindness to all those fortunate to know him.  And of course, a Buffalo Bills fan.

The funeral service will be held at the Levine Memorial Chapel at 12 noon on Friday, September 18, 2026, located at 649 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12206.  The burial service will conclude at the Jewish Farmer’s Cemetery on Western Avenue thereafter.  Out of respect for the observance of both Shabbat and Yom Kippur this weekend, the family will receive visitors for a limited time at home on Friday after the service until 6 pm, and from 1-6 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

If desired, in lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests that friends make memorial contributions to the Lewis Family Fund, administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. Through the Foundation, our family supports causes including Say Yes to Buffalo for children’s education and Autism Speaks.