David Lee Lewis

David Lee Lewis, known affectionately to many as Kasebik Merrusheta, passed away on May 20, 2026, at the age of 61 in Silver Spring, Maryland, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 19, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York, to parents Dorsey Lewis Sr. and Rebecca Lewis, David lived a life defined by love, curiosity, and an unwavering dedication to his family and his heritage. David grew up surrounded by a close and loving family. He attended local schools and went on to pursue higher education, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Microelectronic Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology, a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from George Washington University, and a Juris Doctor from Catholic University’s Columbus School of Law in Washington, DC. His professional career reflected his intellect, dedication, and versatility. He held positions at Motorola and, until his passing, served as a patent examiner and, most recently, a supervisory patent examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout his career. In every role he held, David brought the same quiet determination and relaxed spirit that defined his character. David was a man of a gentle spirit and easygoing nature, qualities that drew people to him and made them feel welcome in his presence. David married Shaila Settles in 2006, and they welcomed two children who became the center of his world. He was a devoted father above all else. David took immense pride in his children and could often be found cheering them on from the sidelines at basketball and volleyball games. His love for them was unwavering, and he worked to instill in them a deep sense of identity, purpose, and connection to their heritage. David was a lifelong learner with a deep passion for African history, traditions, and culture. He pursued this passion with sincerity and purpose. He was an active member of The Earth Center, a community that became central to his life and spiritual journey. He found both community and purpose in the study and preservation of ancestral knowledge and traditions. His dedication to understanding and honoring his African heritage led him to travel to Africa, an experience that profoundly shaped his worldview. He carried the name Kasebik Merrusheta as a reflection of his deep commitment to these traditions, and he lived by the values and principles they taught him. David is survived by his son, Nile Lewis; his daughter, Sophia Lewis; and their mother, Shaila Settles-Lewis, his former wife. He is also survived by his sisters, Dorian Lewis-Hood and Monique Perry, and his brother, Dorsey Lewis; his brothers-and-sisters-in-love, Dave Hood, Clement Perry, John Settles, Pamela Lewis, and Jacqui Settles; and his mother-in-law, Dorothy Settles. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him dearly. David's gentle nature, his laughter, and his passion for knowledge and heritage left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. May his spirit continue its journey in peace, carrying with it the ancestral wisdom he so deeply honored in life. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 13th at: March Life Tribute Center, P.A. - Laurel 7601 Sandy Spring Road Laurel, MD 20707 (301) 490-1550 He will be laid to rest at: King Memorial Park Cemetery 8710 Dogwood Road Baltimore, MD 21244 (410) 944-8300

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David Lee Lewis

July 19, 1964 - May 20, 2026