By Cara Cowan Watts | Cherokee 411

Jul 29, 1936 — Jul 13, 2026
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Cherokee Nation Citizen
Lou was born on July 29, 1936, in Salina, Oklahoma, to Skake Kingfisher and Peggy (Hungry) Kingfisher. She attended Wyandotte Indian School before graduating from Sequoyah High School with the Class of 1956.
On November 24, 1957, Lou married the love of her life, Yazzie Lewis, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Lou dedicated 40 years of service as a cutter at Fabricut, where she was known for her strong work ethic and commitment. Outside of work, she was a devoted member of New Jordan Baptist Church in Salina, faithfully serving the Lord throughout her life. As a fluent Cherokee speaker, Lou took great pride in her heritage and treasured the traditions and language of her people. She enjoyed cheering for her favorite teams, including the Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Yankees, and the Salina Wildcats. Whether watching a game or spending time with family, Lou found joy in life’s simple moments and in the company of those she loved. Lou will be remembered for her unwavering faith, kind heart, quiet strength, and deep love for her family.
She is survived by her husband, Yazzie Lewis of the home; sons, Phillip Lewis and wife, Janet, of Catoosa; John Lewis and wife, Sandra, of Tulsa; Robert Lewis and wife, Chellie, of Erie, Pennsylvania; and Paul Lewis of Salina, Oklahoma; eight grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends who will cherish her memory.




