Salvation Army bell ringer remembered with balloon launch

Almost a week before his birthday, Ivan Lewis’ family gathered at The Salvation Army in Dublin to release balloons to remember him, five years after he passed away.

Lewis’ daughter, Michelle, reminded family and friends who gathered in front of The Salvation Army store, that they will be ringing the bell in his honor since it was something he spent many years doing at this time of year.

“We just want to release our balloons up with our good energy and spirit and let them go up to him,” Michelle said.

Charika Todd, The Salvation Army Dublin Service Center Director, said they wanted to honor Lewis as close to his birthday (Nov. 16). 

“Today we come together for Mr. Lewis,” Todd said. “We gather to honor his memory. It has been five years since he passed away and today we celebrate the impact he made on our lives.” 

Michelle thanked Todd and The Salvation Army for wiling to honor her father. Before releasing the balloons, she had another comment to make in order to celebrate the occasion. 

“Dad was tone death but he loved to sing and jam,” she said. “But, I want to play one of his favorite songs.” 

With that, Michelle played the song “Brick House” as the balloons floated up toward the heavens. 

“Mr. Lewis was a beloved figure at The Salvation Army,” Todd said. “He always brought joy through his cheerful ringing of bells. His spirit radiated happiness throughout the year, especially throughout the Christmas season. He brought joy to our community. He was so glad to be able to do this every year. It was always a joy having him come in because I knew that even if you were having a bad day, when he came in to get his kettle he would be able to change ones attitude.” 

For more information about ringing bells for The Salvation Army, call (478) 275-7336.