(ThyBlackMan.com) Overshadowed and completely eclipsed by the news of a famous (infamous) recording artist is the news of the sudden passing of Ronald “Butch” Lewis.
While discussions could be found all over the Twitterverse about Amy Winehouse passing away, there was not much to be found about Mr. Lewis and his life and achievements.
Is it so much easier then, to embrace and acknowledge someone more known for battling her demons than for her actual contributions to society or, are we so conditioned to only relate to stories about black men who are engaged in criminal activity or doing something “wrong“? 
Not knowing Mr. Lewis personally, I cannot speak to his character. I can however, speak to what he accomplished during his life and how he did in his own small way try to make a difference in the lives of those around him. The words “role model” gets thrown around haphazardly and bestowed upon individuals who have not accomplished a small portion of what Mr. Lewis managed during his time here on this earth. Successful black businessman, with a mind towards philanthropic pursuits who started out as none of the above.
While he started as a used car salesman, it was as a boxing promoter that he gained prominence. Signing The Spinks brothers to contracts and arranging fights with Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes and Mike Tyson during what some might consider the “Golden Age” of boxing his success allowed and inspired him to do more, not rest on his laurels.
It was through his entertainment company that a very popular and successful pay-per-view concert with James Brown was done. He has successfully been engaged with projects with BET, and a partnership with Island Def Jam Music Group. Additionally, Mr. Lewis has received awards and recognition from Morehouse College and had the governor of his home state declare a day in his honor.
Less reported but of no small significance was his penchant for giving and supporting college students by paying tuition for some who would not have been able to attend otherwise.
So on the surface at least and in no small way, this man has done what many speak of needing to be done in the black community and what society at large would commend as being successful.
So can we take a few moments, or 140 characters to show some love and respect to someone who actually “got it“? Even better send an email or a word of condolence to the family.
Because, for sure this brother’s life was not lived in vain.
Staff Writer; Alinda Pete
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