Rufus Lewis

Rufus Gwendoyle Lewis age 83, passed away November 25, 2021, in Rockport, Texas. He was born January 13, 1938, in Cordele, Georgia to Curtis and Adele Bartlett Lewis. After serving in the U.S. Airforce, including a tour of Vietnam, Rufus began his flying career in Dallas, Texas working for Avia Jet and Western Jet, flying the new Lear Jet. In 1974, he went to work for Enterprise Products Co. In Houston, Texas as a Chief Pilot and Director of Aviation Services. In the late 1970’s, Rufus became Co-owner of Enterprise Aviation at Hobby Airport. He continued to have a distinguished aviation career forming Gulf Coast Aviation. Rufus also held many air carrier certificates and was a FAA Designated Flight Examiner in Houston beginning in 1980 for many years. In July 2018, Rufus was surprised with a ceremony awarding him The Distinguished Wright Brothers “Master Pilot” Award by the Department of Federal Aviation Administration. Rufus enjoyed boating, fishing, golf and telling stories entertaining his friends. He had an incredible work ethics and was employed by Enterprise Products Company, until the day he passed away. Rufus is survived by his wife Susan Sanford Lewis of Rockport, Texas, and son Christopher Lewis of Florida. He is preceded in death by his son Perry Curtis Lewis. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to: Wings Rescue Center, PO Box 1912, Rockport, TX., Texas Maritime Museum, 1202 Navigation Circle, Rockport, TX. 78382 or a charity of your choice. Memorial services will be held, December 13, 2021 at 11:00 am at Christian Temple Church, 6109 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena Texas.