Lewis Morrell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lewis J. Morrell Sr., affectionately known as 'Big Lew', a devoted husband, father, and public servant, who left us on January 5, 2025, at the age of 61. Born on May 3, 1963, in Newark, NJ, Lewis spent much of his life making a difference in the community that he loved, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication.

Lewis began his career in public safety working the midnight shift at the Bergen County Jail, a role that instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and respect for those around him. He rose through the ranks at the Bergen County Sheriff's Department, serving with distinction as President of the PBA Local 134 for 12 years before his promotion to sergeant. He led a detective squad in the warrant division, and later became Lieutenant, where he oversaw court operations for the remainder of his career. Among his numerous accomplishments, Lewis took immense pride in his response to Hurricane Katrina, where he selflessly assisted in search and recovery efforts, embodying the spirit of service that defined his life.

To those who had the privilege of knowing him, Lewis was more than just a colleague; he was a true "cop's cop" who considered every member of his union family. His unwavering support and kindness resonated deeply within the community, and he was always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Lewis lived by the motto that we must look out for one another, and this is a message that we will carry forward in his honor.

Lewis is survived by his beloved mother, Barbara Morrell (nee Wardell); loving wife, Diane Morrell (nee Prelich); devoted son, Lewis J. Morrell Jr.; cherished sister, LuAnn Critchley & husband Ed; brother, Mark Morrell & life partner, Carolyn Cuba; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Frank & Barbara Prelich; sister-in-law, Karen & Stephen Passaro; brother-in-law, Michael Prelich; and precious nieces and nephew, Jennifer Critchley & fiance Erik Holl, Caroline Passaro, and Andrew Prelich. He will also be remembered fondly by his aunt, Lynne Devine and the late William Devine; cousins, Billy, Ellen, & Will Devine, Christine Devine, Noel Triguero and fiancé, Matt McNally.

Visitaiton Thursday 1-4 & 6-9pm at the Ippolito-Stellato Funeral Home, 425 Ridge Road, Lyndhurst where friends, family, and members of the community are invited to gather and honor his life. Funeral Mass Friday 10AM St. Stephen's Church, Kearny. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Lewis's memory to the PBA Local 134 Civic Association, PO Box 4087, South Hackensack NJ 07606 to continue his mission of service to others.

As we gather to pay our respects, let us remember Lewis not only for his dedicated career in public safety but for the love and warmth he shared with everyone around him. May his spirit live on in the kindness we show to one another and in the memories we cherish.

134 4 Life.