WMOK – Metropolis, IL — The City of Metropolis and Massac County are processing an immeasurable loss following the passing of Ward 4 Alderman Chad Lewis. Across town today, flags fly at half-mast as the community honors a leader whose energy, drive, and dedication to local progress were completely unmatched.

Every now and then, a community is fortunate to have someone whose vision and passion fundamentally shape its future. Chad Lewis was one of those rare, irreplaceable people who brought consistent community spirit and action to everyday life.

A Lifetime of Service and Leadership

Chad’s impact stretched across city government, civic organizations, and major grassroots initiatives. He didn’t just show up; he spearheaded the projects that directly improved life for families right here at home.

• City Council Leadership: As a dedicated Ward 4 Alderman, Chad was a fierce advocate for municipal progress, consistently pushing for innovative ways to grow Metropolis and support his constituents.

• Civic Engagement: Through his deep involvement with groups like the Metropolis Elks Lodge, Chad partnered in consistent local community service and civic outreach.

• Harrah’s Back to School Supply Giveaway: Chad was a champion and primary organizer for this annual event. Under his leadership, the giveaway grew to provide over 14,000 individual school supplies to between 400 and 500 Massac County students every single year.

• Hometown Celebrations: He was instrumental in bringing the community together, putting his logistical energy into organizing the city’s major July 4th fireworks and regional events.

Keeping the Vision Alive at 920wmok.com

Chad was a welcome guest on our WMOK Coffee Breaks, always focused on his passion for growing the city. WMOK is currently holding hours of audio from those discussions—conversations that carry many of his thoughts and visions for a thriving Metropolis.

As we review those archives, WMOK is launching a brand-new, dedicated City of Metropolis page on our website. Work began on the page this morning, starting with a foundational historical timeline of Metropolis and Massac County. Moving forward, this digital space will serve as a hub preserved for talks, ideas, and future initiatives centered entirely around municipal growth, keeping Chad’s vision active for years to come.

Documenting the Public Record

Local news serves as a public record, and we want to ensure every local board Chad served on, group he belonged to, or community initiative he led is fully documented. If you have specific details, board roles, or project milestones to contribute, please send them our way.

How to contribute details:

• WMOK Text Line: Send information to 618-524-9209

• Online: Send a direct message to our personal profile or the WMOK page inbox.

Our thoughts remain with Chad’s family, friends, and colleagues during this time. He leaves behind a legacy of progress that will not be forgotten by those listening in Metropolis, Massac County, and beyond.

The Massac County High School Class of 1989 is officially gearing up for a summer celebration. A “Save the Date” announcement has been issued for the upcoming class reunion, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

The event will be held at the Elks Lodge in Metropolis, offering classmates a great local venue to gather and catch up. Attendees can look forward to a casual and fun evening, with a taco bar set to be served. Organizers note that more specific details regarding the reunion will be released soon.

WMOK Live Stream

Links to Local Employers:

Massac Memorial Hospital

MMH is hiring! Join a team that puts patients first and supports the health of our community every day. Compassion. Excellence. Local Care. Apply today at www.massachealth.org/careers or by scanning the QR code.

Rural Health, Inc.

Metropolis Big John

Shawnee Community College

City of Metropolis

Southern Seven Health Department