Katie Mae Lewis-Holifield

Katie Lewis-Holifield was born on September 27, 1953, in Mizpah, New Jersey. From the very beginning, her life was grounded in family, faith, and community; values she carried with her every step of the way. Affectionately known as “Ms. Katie” or simply “Mom” to many, she had a way of making people feel instantly welcome. Her warm smile, gentle spirit, and genuine love left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Katie greeted others with kindness and never missed an opportunity to speak about the goodness of God. Her faith was not just something she talked about, but it was something she lived, openly and joyfully, every day.

Katie was a proud and devoted mother who loved her children deeply. She welcomed her first son, Edward Lewis, in October 1973, and her son Raymond Lewis in January 1980, embracing motherhood with determination and grace. Wanting to remain close to family, she moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to be near her beloved older sister and later settled in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in 1984. Harrisburg quickly became home, a place where she built lifelong friendships and cherished memories. From her marriage to Ron McGee (1985–2005), she was blessed with her daughter, Keyanna McGee, born in December 1986, completing the family she treasured. In 2013, Katie married her loving husband, Mitchell Holifield. Together they shared laughter, companionship, and a quiet, steady love until his passing in 2024.

One of Katie’s greatest joys was cooking and serving others. Her kitchen was often the heart of gatherings, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable meals. In 2005, she proudly graduated from Culinary Arts School, turning a lifelong passion into a profession. Her talents were even recognized in a magazine highlighting her work at a downtown Harrisburg restaurant, an achievement that brought her and her family great pride. For Katie, feeding people, both physically and spiritually, was a true ministry, and church, fellowship, and “a good plate of food” were woven into her happiest moments.

Katie’s work life reflected her servant’s heart. She worked in several daycare facilities, served faithfully as a crossing guard, worked as a beloved school lunch lady, and later served the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Each role allowed her to stay connected to children and her community, which she loved dearly. Even after retiring, Katie continued giving back as a seasonal tax preparer, always offering patience, care, and encouragement.

A faithful member of Christian Insight Ministries in Harrisburg, Katie devoted more than ten years to the Children’s Ministry. Her nurturing spirit, patience, and compassion made a lasting impact on countless young lives. Church was more than a place she attended; it was a community she helped build, one hug, one meal, and one encouraging word at a time.

Katie was proud of how far she had come and began writing her autobiography so future generations would know her story. Although health challenges prevented her from finishing it, the words she did write reflect her resilience, courage, and joy in the journey. She especially treasured earning her high school diploma at age 19, shortly after welcoming her first son, a reminder that perseverance and determination can open doors at any stage of life.

Katie will always be remembered for her kind heart, her bright smile, and her loving reminder to “behave yourself.” She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and cared for, whether through laughter, a listening ear, or making sure no one ever left her presence hungry. Her legacy lives on in the stories shared, the recipes passed down, and the many hearts she touched.

On December 17, 2025, Katie peacefully transitioned from this life, surrounded by love and cherished memories. Though she is deeply missed, her family and friends find comfort in knowing she is at rest and reunited with loved ones.

Katie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mitchell Holifield; her son, Edward Lewis; her parents, Clementine, and Bennie Lewis; her brothers, Bennie Lewis Jr. and Sammy Lewis; and her sisters, LaRachel Lewis, Lisa Gambrel, Colette Davis, Betty Jean Lewis, Laura Lewis, and Eldora Ross.

She leaves behind a loving legacy through her son, Raymond Lewis of Harrisburg, PA; her daughter, Keyanna McGee; her son, Tony Ransome; her stepmother, Muriel Lewis; her brothers, Edward Lewis, Eugene Lewis, Gerald Lewis, Joe Lewis, and Cecil Lewis; and her sisters, Nina Lewis, Francine Ellis, and Veronica Sebastion. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Raymond Lewis Jr., Jaylihia Lewis, Nianna McGee, Ni’Anna McGee, Rayna Lewis, Khadijah Lewis, and Justin Sheldon, along with nieces, nephews, all her favorites, and her extended family, church family, and dear friends who will continue to carry her memory forward.

Though she has gone from our sight, she will forever remain in our hearts.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.