Rosalynn Lewis

Rosalynn Lewis, a devoted mother, gifted communicator, and passionate advocate, was called home on Thursday, June 19, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, just shy of her 76th birthday. There to meet her was her mother, Mary Burns, father Willie Burns and her sister Dorothy Richmond.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Rosalynn lived a life marked by brilliance and an unwavering commitment to others. She earned her BA in Finance with a minor in Accounting from North Central College, laying the foundation for a dynamic career that spanned over three decades.

Rosalynn was the founder and owner of a successful real estate brokerage firm, and she used her expertise not only to build a business but to educate and uplift others. As co-director of CBS Channel 2 News’ “Call for Action,” she coordinated more than 200 volunteers to respond to consumer needs and economic hardship, helping thousands find support. Her voice was a trusted guide on WVON 1390 AM, where she hosted a real estate talk show focused on homeownership, credit, and foreclosure prevention. Her insightful weekly column in The Chicago Defender extended her reach to readers across the city, always advocating for economic justice and empowerment.

She remained a woman of deep faith, reading her Bible daily and often reflecting on scriptures like 2 Corinthians 5:7 — “Walk by faith, not by sight” — and 1 Peter 2:24 – “By his wounds, you have been healed”, which offered her enduring strength.

Rosalynn found joy in the simple and sacred: morning reads of The Wall Street Journal, a steaming bowl of greens and cabbage, gospel music playing in the background, or a well-earned moment in the steam room after a good workout. She loved wearing dresses, sharing laughter, and the occasional Porterhouse steak. Her love for learning extended to the study of herbs and health, always seeking wellness for herself and others. She poured herself into her daughters, Ericka Lapas and Audrey Lewis, instilling in them resilience, faith, and purpose. She is also survived by her beloved granddaughter, Nailah Lewis; son-in-law, Frederick Malone; and seven siblings: Clarissa Cabell, Larry Burns, Pam Woods, Sharon Leggett, Reggie Burns, Martha Burns, and Paullette Haywood. Rosalynn leaves behind several nieces and nephews, and a host of friends and former colleagues whose lives were touched by her advocacy and deep generosity of spirit.

Rosalynn will be cremated under the care of Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 East Queen Creek Road, Gilbert, AZ 85297.

A memorial service to honor her life will be held in Chicago, Illinois, tentatively set for August 2, 2025.

In the face of life’s trials, Rosalynn walked by faith. She lived boldly, spoke truthfully, and gave freely. Her memory lives in those she loved, taught, and lifted.