Charles William “Bill” Lewis, 90, of Charleston, West Virginia (WV), died peacefully on October 31st, 2026, at his daughter's home, surrounded by loved ones.

Bill was a proud West Virginian whose professional career and personal passions were deeply rooted in his love for the state's Natural Resources. He graduated from Rupert High School in 1953, attended Glenville State College, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Mechanics degree from WVU. He later received a Masters degree in public administration from WV College of Graduate Studies .

In 1957, Bill began a distinguished career with the WV Department of Natural Resources, serving for 31 years before retiring in December 1988. As Executive Secretary, he was entrusted with maintaining records and securing funds for the state's parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. Serving under five governors, Bill became a respected voice for conservation, presenting funding initiatives to the state legislature securing resources for WV's natural treasures. He served as president of the WV Chapter of the International Public Management Association and member of the Board of Trustees of the WV Wildlife Endowment Fund under Governor Joe Manchin.

His dedication to conservation extended beyond his professional responsibilities. An avid hunter and fisherman, Bill enjoyed his hunting camps and traveled to nearly every State Park in WV. He was instrumental in the state's lifetime hunting license program and held the first lifetime hunting license issued. He was featured in a special hunting issue of Wonderful West Virginia magazine and instrumental in producing documentary programs highlighting fishing in West Virginia, often appearing in many of those episodes.

Bill cherished lifelong friendships, particularly his friendship with J.D. Brackenrich, that began in 7th grade and remained a treasured part of his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Quilla and Ella Lewis; his brother, Orvalee Lewis; his daughter, Dena Lewis; the mother of his children, Betty Hines Lewis, and his longtime companion, Barbara Palmer.

He is survived by his daughter, Sandy Johnston, (Steve), of Harpers Ferry; his grandchildren, Robert Estep III (Megan), of Martinsburg; Morgan Johnston (Rita), of Charles Town; and Megan Call (Drew), of Harpers Ferry; and his three great grandchildren, Wyatt, Waylon, and Sadie. He is also survived by brother, Robert “Nick” Lewis (Bunny); his niece, Nicole Workman (Scott); and his nephew, Mike Lewis.

In keeping with his family's wishes, bill will be cremated, and no formal services will be held.

Bill leaves behind A legacy of cherished friendships and a deep love for the mountains and wildlife of WV. Above all, he leaves behind a loving family who will forever treasure his memory and the lasting contributions he made to the state he so dearly loved.