Nancy Lewis was life-affirming to the very core of her being. She didn’t just believe in life-affirming care—she lived it. Her time on Earth was marked by intentionality, a desire to raise up those around her in Christ, and an unwavering commitment to serve others. Her kindness, strength, and determination touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Nancy was a light in the lives of so many, and her legacy in the life-affirming movement will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Derek, Nancy, and their son Michael
Nancy and Derek Lewis met in their youth and quickly fell in love, eventually getting married. A few years into their marriage, they received life-changing news—Nancy was pregnant! Their joy was soon met with a difficult reality: their son was born with cerebral palsy. The doctor delivered a grim prognosis, saying, “Your son will never feed himself, clothe himself, or contribute to society. You should institutionalize him.”
Despite these discouraging words, Nancy and Derek refused to give up on their son. They poured their hearts and energy into improving his life and mobility, enlisting friends and family to help with hour-long shifts to move his arms and legs and build his strength. This relentless devotion began Nancy’s inspiring journey as a life-affirming champion.
Nancy, along with her husband, played a pivotal role in the founding of the Orange County therapeutic riding program. Connecting with other parents of children with disabilities, Nancy rallied a community to help bring the vision to life. Together, they served as original board members, shaping an enduring legacy. Now, 45 years later, the program thrives with the support of over 1,000 volunteers and contributors annually.
A Champion for Life
Shortly after her life-changing experience with Michael, Nancy found a profound connection with the Lord and accepted Him as her personal Savior. Nancy’s unwavering commitment to her new faith and the value of life became the foundation of her actions.
She and Derek always shared their belief that choosing abortion in the face of an unplanned pregnancy or prognosis should never be the answer. “People are missing out on the opportunity for God to do a great thing in their lives by aborting their baby,” said Derek.
A Life Serving Others
Nancy welcomed multiple single moms into their home.
One night, a girl who lived with them shared that her 15-year-old sister was pregnant, and their parents planned to send her off to a girl’s home. They said, “No, she won’t.” So, this pregnant girl lived with them. Nancy arranged for both girls’ babies to be adopted by families per their wishes.
A Mother to All
Nancy’s impact was felt by everyone who knew her. Her celebration of life had over 400 people packed in her home. They remembered a woman who spoke truth in love, tirelessly served her community, and inspired others to live boldly for Christ. In her life, she launched Run the Race, a high school Bible study group, which grew from five students to over 120 within two years, providing prayer, worship, and mentorship to young people for eight years. She ministered to widows, divorced women, and singles, hosting Valentine’s Day events to foster encouragement and community. She and her husband, Derek, also spoke at marriage conferences, offering wisdom and hope to couples.
As Derek beautifully put it, “Nancy took us on a constant ride with her and Michael, affecting lives for Christ.” Nancy’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through her ministries.
The Lasting Legacy of a Full Life
At Save the Storks, we are inspired by leaders like Nancy Lewis. Her actions—opening her home, mentoring young people, and championing life—exemplify what it means to live out the life-affirming message every day. Nancy’s unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and compassionate service remind us why we do what we do: to serve women, protect life, and share the hope of Christ. Nancy’s life reminds us that we can create a world that values every life through love, faith, and intentionality.
