Jerome Russell Lewis
June 7, 1939 - December 13, 2025
Jerome Russell Lewis, of Newark, DE, passed away on Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Jerome was born on June 7, 1939 in Minneapolis. He was raised in Roseville, Minnesota by his parents, Murray and Russell Lewis. Jerome graduated from the University of Minnesota and later earned a Master of Public Administration (MPA), and a PhD in Public Administration from New York University. After working for the U.S. Department of Commerce, he joined the University of Delaware faculty in 1969, in what is now the Biden School of Public Policy and Administration.
Jerome led a life devoted to public service. He served as the founding director of the Master of Public Administration Program and helped generations of students to prepare for careers in government. He was particularly proud of the Legislative Fellows Program, which he founded in 1982, and which gave students the opportunity to help staff the Delaware General Assembly. He also initiated the Delaware Association for Public Administration, the local chapter of the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).
In 1973, Jerome created the Institute for Public Administration (IPA), which became the largest and most comprehensive center in the Biden School and the university’s primary unit to support Delaware state and local government. He served as director of IPA until his death, overseeing hundreds of public service projects, sharing his high regard for the importance and excitement of public service with his students and staff, and improving the quality of public services in communities across Delaware.
During his career, Jerome’s contributions were commended by the University of Delaware (Ratledge Award), the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (Elmer Staats Award), and Common Cause (Good Government Award). In 2023, Governor John Carney presented Jerome with the Order of the First State, an honor bestowed by the Office of the Governor to signify Jerome’s “outstanding efforts, knowledge, integrity, prudence, and ability” in serving his community and his state.
Jerome was a treasured husband, father, and grandfather. He was predeceased by his brother, Raymond. He is survived by his wife, Linda; his sons Russell Lewis (Cecilia Cheng) and Raymond Lewis (Racine Lewis); his daughter, Elizabeth Zubaca (Nermin Zubaca); his sisters, Ellen James Martin (Tony Lehman) and Eugenie Lewis (Darryl Leong); sister-in-law, Judith Lewis; and his five grandchildren, Alexandra, Anderson, Nora, Benjamin and Sloane.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 1 pm until 3 pm on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at the First Unitarian Church of Wilmington, 730 Halstead Road, Wilmington, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 3 pm. Inurnment will be held privately.
In Jerome’s memory, contributions can be made to the Jerome Lewis Director’s Fund in the Institute for Public Administration, which supports the education of public administration students by clicking here.
Brian Wismer
To the Family of Dr. Jerome Lewis:
Dr. Lewis was my boss at my first job at the University of Delaware as a student office assistant at the Institute for Public Administration. He was so good to me as a supervisor and friend as he was to all who worked for him and knew him. I am very sorry for your loss, and please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Brian Wismer
Elizabeth Fournier
Peace be with you.
Georgia Lane
To the family of Dr Lewis,
We are so sorry for your loss. Dr. Lewis was a true mentor and source of encouragement to our daughter, Gabrielle Lane during her college years at UD and after. His guidance, kindness, and belief in her has left a lasting impression that continues to shape who she is today. As her parents, we will always be grateful for the time, care, and wisdom he shared with her. His impact lives on through the many students whose lives were changed, including our daughter. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Matthew and Georgia Lane
Tom DeWire
Dr. Lewis created something that has endured and will continue to endure — the impact he has had on the lives of Delawareans and people across the country and world is incalculable. There are IPA graduates from my class alone working across the country and the world in public service. While IPA was a highlight for graduate school, internships (including Legislative Fellows) brought classroom learning to real world experience — and that’s when learning sticks. His legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren. Sorry for your loss. But Dr. Lewis is an exemplar of a life well lived.
Hilary Reilly
The Biden School of Public Administration was fortunate to have such a dedicated educator leading its IPA program for so many years. Dr. Lewis’ presence will be missed on campus and beyond. It is with a heavy heart that we hear of this news. We send our condolences to the University of Delaware community, and his family and friends. Please remember that as educators, we all leave our mark upon the students we touch beyond the time we share. May his legacy live on in the students he touched over the course of his prestigious career. 🕊🌅
Liz Ross
I feel that a part of so many people went with Jerome. His life should be honored. Love to all of his friends and family.
Joyce Henderson
Words can not express how sadden to hear of the homegoing of Dr. Jerome Lewis who will be sorely missed. Jerome was a friend and mentor. He cared about the wellbeing of others and would go out of way to help UD students succeed academically. May his soul rest in peace and may the work he did on earth speak for him. I pray that God will comfort the family during this difficult time.
Alisa Moldavanova
Life well-lived and legacy that will last for generations.
Idowu Kunlere
Dr. Jerome Lewis was a towering figure at the IPA. He was kind and welcoming.
May his soul rest in eternal peace. And may God comfort his family and friends, the IPA, and Biden School.
Megan Lehman
Dr. Lewis created institutions and programs that will ensure. His professional legacy is incredible. Generations of public servants owe their start to him. Condolences to his family and friends.
James Bell
What an incredible legacy Jerome left to remember him by, I’m grateful to have known and worked with him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time.
Mihret (Mercy) Walelgne
Dr. Lewis was a genuine soul and a tireless public servant who laid a strong foundation for my education and career, and for thousands of others. I am deeply grateful for his leadership at IPA and for the time, care, and mentorship he devoted to his students. He was a steadfast advocate for those who felt helpless, standing beside them in every way he could. My life and journey are a testament to his impact—always marked by his joy and warm smile. His legacy will live on through IPA and through everyone whose life he touched. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Karrine Coleman
Dr. Lewis will forever be remembered in my heart as selfless. He had me in his seminar class & he always went out of his way to make sure I was okay and give me opportunities that I wouldn’t have without his assistance. I am forever grateful. I’m praying for peace for each and everyone of his family and friends during this time. He will never be forgotten.
Ashley Labosier
Jerome was one of the founding fathers of the Consortium of University Public Service Organizations and a mentor to many of us “younger folks.” His wisdom and encouragement were invaluable. I always appreciated his determination to overcome bureaucratic obstacles to provide answers. He will be deeply missed. The thoughts and prayers of the CUPSO family are with you all at this time.
Ashley Labosier (director, CUPSO)
Sean Hildebrand
Dr. Lewis was one of a kind in academia. Always positive and helpful before, during, and after my time in his classroom. He will always be remembered fondly by those he taught and worked with alike. My condolences to those closest to him at this time.
Greg Ketcham
Linda, I am sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
Valdese West
Dr. Lewis leaves an unmatched impact in public policy and education opportunity in Delaware. He was a great leader, Director and supporter of people. Prayers of peace and comfort to his family.
Arqam Tariq
I was saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. Lewis. I met him on my first day at the Biden School and we exchanged pleasantries. He was excited to learn that I had studied for a year in Minnesota, his home state. May he rest in peace, and I am sure his legacy will benefit hundreds of scholars for years to come.
James Webster
So sorry to hear this news. Jerome was both larger-than-life and down-to-earth. It’s appropriate to say he had a life well-lived. My condolences to his family and colleagues. He will be greatly missed.
Manoj Doss
Dr. Lewis had many tremendous professional accomplishments, but somehow they pale in comparison to the impact he had on the people around him. He instilled confidence, opened doors, and helped others see what was possible at moments when it mattered most. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the work that continues because of his belief in others. A life truly well lived.
David Fineman
Jerome was a true mentor and friend in the MPA program (‘79 grad) He arranged for me to have a fellowship with stipend that led, after graduation, to a career with the Federal Government taking me throughout the world.
Linda Boyd
I worked in the Dean’s office of the School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy, now the Biden School forever 30 years. I would see Jerome in the hallway and he would always stop to ask how I was doing and we would talk for a few minutes just to catch up. He always had time to catch up with colleagues. I considered him a dear friend. My deepest sympathy to his family on their loss. I will forever remember Jerome as one of my favorite people. The School is a better place because of Jerome.
ann nelson
Linda and family,
We are so sad to hear of Jerome passing and his struggle with cancer. Knowing him and meeting you all when we did was providential and brought so much light to our lives. My love and condolences to you all .
Ann Nelson
for Joe and Gabe as well
Mesut Karakoc
Dr. Lewis was on my master’s thesis and doctoral dissertation committees, and I learned so much from him over the years. As an international student, I struggled to adapt to the U.S. education system. He was incredibly supportive during that time and helped me feel comfortable and included. His guidance and kindness made a real difference in my academic and personal life. He was a true leader at the IPA, and I will always be grateful for his mentorship. I will deeply miss him.
Vanessa Fry
I appreciate this opportunity to share a few words about Jerome and the impact he had on my life.
My friendship with Jerome began in 2017, when the University of Delaware hosted the annual Consortium of University Public Service Organizations (CUPSO) conference. Right after arriving on campus, I met Jerome, and we connected immediately—especially over my long-standing love of Delaware, from childhood trips to Rehoboth Beach to many visits as an adult. From that first meeting on, Jerome took me under his wing. Each time our paths crossed after that, he offered thoughtful guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support.
One of my favorite memories is from that very first CUPSO conference. During a dinner hosted at Buena Vista mansion, Jerome caught my attention as soon as we walked into the mansion and said, “There’s someone I want you to meet!” He walked me over and introduced me to then-Governor John Carney—and then promptly stepped away, leaving me to a long and memorable conversation with the Governor. That moment perfectly captured Jerome’s generosity of spirit: he was always opening doors for others, creating opportunities, and quietly lifting people up.
Jerome truly lived a life of public service, and he deeply influenced my own aspirations to serve in that same way. I am profoundly grateful to have known him and to have been shaped by his kindness, generosity, and belief in others. He will always hold a special place in my heart.
Please know that Jerome’s impact reaches far beyond what words can capture, and that his legacy lives on through the many people he mentored and supported.
With heartfelt sympathy and gratitude,
Vanessa Fry (Idaho Policy Institute, Boise State University)
Mark Harmon for Richard Harmon
Linda, Russel, Ray, and Elizabeth,
My deepest empathy and support for your loss. I remember fondly our family get togethers growing up. My dad considered Jerry among his best friends and a kindred spirit in service to the public good as a fellow educator. I hope you and your family are able to find closure on your journey of grief, remembrance, and celebration of the life Jerry lived. Take care.
Nancy & Ron Rowe
Our thoughts are with the whole family. Jerome was a kind person and a great listener. He was very proud of his children and enjoyed his grandchildren. Wishing Linda, Russell, Raymond, Lizzie the peace that comes with time and the comfort of memories. Love you all
Uncle Ron & Aunt Nancy
Erica Crell
Liz and family: I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I hope you can find comfort in the memories you shared with him and in the support of the people who care about you. If you need anything or just want someone to talk to, I am here for you. – Coach Erica
Sylves Richard
Jerome was my friend and UD colleague for many years. He was kind, funny, and I have never seen him lose his temper. He put others at ease and he advanced his students and programs successfully on and off campus. Professor Lewis was remarkably good at leading groups by employing a soft touch and his big heart. I am deeply saddened by his passing and his legacy will be enduring.
Nicole Seymour
To the Lewis Family,
My heart goes out to each of you. Dr. Lewis was a relentless advocate for me and opened a lot of doors for my career. Please know that I am grieving with you and here to support you in any way possible. Praying that the God of all comfort surrounds each of you with His cords of love and kindness.
Ndi Sampson
Though I didn’t know Dr. Lewis well, I do fondly remember some very edifying conversations with him. He struck me as equal parts compassionate, intelligent, and pragmatic. I can see the best of Dr. Lewis lives on in his kids. I’m sorry for your great loss.
Alexis Wrease
What is most evident is that Dr. Lewis was a great man. His impact as an educator and true public servant will transcend generations. In my own life, the conversations held in his classrooms undoubtedly changed the trajectory of my career and deepened my passion for community and service. I carry his lessons with me in every room I walk in, and am beyond grateful to have been under his tutelage. So many people had small moments with Dr. Lewis and understood quickly what a kind and great man he was. But to those closest to him, I cannot imagine how much more intimately you knew of his excellence and his heart. To his family and to his loved ones my sincerest condolences. I hope comfort is found in the fact that you carry on his bold legacy and his love. I am praying for peace and in this time and onward.
Adaobi Umeugo
Dr. Lewis was a driven, dedicated and exemplary leader in public administration. His genuine care for his students and communities was shown through his hard work and dedication. I was lucky having Dr. Lewis as a professor and mentor. Dr. Lewis always assured me that my drive and education would get me far in life. Dr. Lewis showed his commitment through being there for his students, while educating us on ethical and effective governance. He was the kind of public administration scholar who didn’t just teach systems, but taught us how to change them. During my meetings with Dr. Lewis, he always talked fondly about his family. He explained to me his daughter played field hockey and had Dutch friends; after I told him my mother is Dutch. Dr. Lewis leaves behind a legacy not only of accomplishment, but of compassion and mentorship. Wishing Dr. Lewis’s family all the love and support they need during this difficult time and may his family find peace, comfort, and strength in the memories he leaves behind.
Sharon J Rothwell
My deepest condolences to Linda and the entire Lewis family. I have many fond memories of working for Jerome over 45 years ago in my first job out of grad school. He was a special person.