Known for her powerful voice, infectious laugh, and deep passion for ministry, the death of gospel singer Mary Odette Lewis-James has left a void. The former lead vocalist, who had been a part of the world-renowned Grace Thrillers since 2003, passed away recently. She was 43 years old.
Lewis-James leaves behind her husband, Dale; three sons; sisters; and a wide circle of relatives and friends.
Noel Willis Jr, manager and singer for the Grace Thrillers, said Lewis-James’ passion was always clear.
“Mary loved music, but her greater passion was souls being saved. She never lost sight of the ministry behind the music. She carried a loving spirit, always laughing, always bringing joy wherever she went.”
On Saturday, September 13, the first of two thanksgiving services was held for Lewis-James at the Emanuel Apostolic Church on Slipe Road, Kingston.
A touching tribute came from Silbert Thomas, who led the Celebration Choir in the hymn It Is Well. Despite being hoarse, he pressed through in honour of his friend. “Mary gave her all while being in our choir—countless times she put our choir on her back,” he said. “Without a doubt, I know God will reward your effort, Mary. I’m still speechless, but God is sovereign.”
Mary’s sister-in-law Karen James described her as a no-nonsense woman when it came to her faith. She was serious about her God, serious about her walk, and unwavering in her convictions.
“She didn’t believe in sugar-coating truth. If you were around her for more than five minutes, you were either being prayed for, encouraged, or lovingly challenged to get right with God.
She was a witness everywhere she went: the grocery store, the doctor’s office, even the gas station. She’d talk to strangers like she knew them a long time, and somehow, they listened. Why? Because there was something real about her. She carried the presence of God,” James stated.
Lewis-James didn’t just pray, said Karen, but “warred in the spirit” and was bold for the Kingdom.
“I miss her voice. I miss her fire. But I know she’s now in the presence of the One she loved most. And if I know my sister, she’s still praying, only now, from heaven’s throne room. I thank God for the legacy she left,” she said.
The second service will be held this Friday, September 19, at the Greater Refuge Temple in New York, where family members and supporters in the diaspora will also have the chance to pay their respects.
Since joining the renowned Grace Thrillers in 2003, Lewis-James had become one of its most beloved lead singers, lending her voice to three of the group’s albums: A New Dawning, It’s All About You, and A Reflection of You. Her renditions of songs like Been Through Enough, Doctor Jesus, and Old Rugged Cross stirred hearts and brought healing. On stage, she was known for powerful live performances of Can’t Even Walk, Come Here to Praise Him, and Not My Will But Thine Be Done—songs that became anthems of surrender and praise.
