Mair Lewis (née Harris-Hughes), the widow of the late Dr. Hugh Bilson Lewis – the fourth dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine – is remembered with appreciation and admiration by the Purdue Veterinary Medicine community after her passing September 7, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington. She was 83.
Known for her warmth, sharp wit, and generous heart, Mair Lewis left an enduring imprint on the communities and people she touched across two continents. In particular, her caring, character, and kindness endeared her to students, staff, faculty and alumni of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Born in Rhyl, Wales, Mair was raised with a deep appreciation for learning and culture. She earned her teaching certification from Furzedown College at London University. In 1965, she married Dr. Hugh Lewis and began a devoted partnership that spanned decades of shared experiences and international moves.
Mair’s adventures took her through Wales and England-with homes in Rhyl, Wrexham, Shrewsbury, London, Cardiff, and Weston-super-Mare, before she relocated to the United States in1966. She lived in Pennsylvania where Hugh completed a residency at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and served on the faculty. Their connection to the State of Indiana dates back to 1976 when Hugh first came to Purdue to teach before joining Smith, Kline and French Laboratories. Then Mair and Hugh returned to Purdue when Hugh became dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine in 1986 and served in that position for ten years. During that time, Mair and Hugh were known for their enduring partnership and togetherness. They later moved to Oregon before settling in Vancouver, Washington.
Throughout her life, Mair found immense joy in exploring and experiencing the natural world. She paired this love of life with a profound commitment to service. A passionate volunteer, coordinator, and philanthropist, she gave her time and talents generously to organizations close to her heart, including the International Center at Purdue University, Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Banfield Charitable Trust, and the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington. Colleagues and friends fondly remember her quick humor, organizational poise, and kindhearted nature. Above all, Mair was devoted to her family.
In keeping with Mair’s explicit wishes, no formal funeral service is planned. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mair’s honor to the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington.
A complete obituary is available here.
