Lewis E. Gordon

Lewis E. Gordon, 88, of Portsmouth, RI, passed away on February 19, 2026. Born in Hackensack, NJ on September 30, 1937, he was the beloved son of the late Lewis Walter and Elizabeth (Holzlein) Gordon.

Upon graduation from high school at age 17, Lew enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served for 20 years. His first sea duty was aboard the USS Bradford (DD-545), a Fletcher class destroyer and his final sea assignment was aboard the USS Basilone (DD-824), a Gearing class destroyer. His duty stations included Naval Station Great Lakes, Naval Base San Diego, Roosevelt Roads Naval Station in the town of Ceiba, Puerto Rico and Fort Meade, Maryland. His final shore duty assignment at Naval Station Newport was where he decided to "drop anchor" and call Aquidneck Island home.

After retiring in 1973 as Chief Petty Officer, Lew began his second career as a business owner and real estate developer. He later became an IRS Enrolled Agent, the highest credential the IRS awards to tax professionals, and spent 20 years serving in several leadership positions with H&R Block. No matter how busy he was, his greatest pride was always his role as Dad and Grandpa.

Nothing mattered more to Lew than time spent with his family. During retirement, he cherished canoe trips with his son Edward, home repair jobs with his son Lew, countless activities with his grandchildren, and gardening. Driving lessons, plays, summer cookouts, and numerous visits to Chuck E. Cheese with his grandkids kept Lew very active throughout retirement. He also enjoyed his routine breakfast dates with his granddaughters. A familiar and friendly face, Lew was a weekly regular at Applebee's, where he enjoyed his hot black coffee and "the usual" with his family. In the warmer months, Lew took tremendous pride in his annual "bumper crop" of tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, and other vegetables that he loved to share.

Lew was the heart and strength of his family, bringing everyone together with his quick wit, steady wisdom, and generous spirit that will be deeply missed. Lew is survived by his two sons, Lewis J. Gordon and Edward Gordon, both of Portsmouth, and his four grandchildren, Emily, Olivia, Michael, and Conor. He was predeceased by his cherished granddaughter Alexandra Gordon; his sister, Irene; his brother, Emil; and his parents.

A private burial will be held at RI Veterans Cemetery in Exeter, RI where Lew will be laid to rest with honors befitting his honorable service to his country.

We will miss you, Dad. Bravo Zulu on a full life well lived!

Online Tribute at www.memorialfuneralhome.com