02/21/2025
with Janet Lewis – The Heart of Lewis Timber, Inc.
For some, the timber industry is just a business. For others, it’s a way of life. For Janet Lewis, it’s both—it’s the thread that has woven together her childhood, career, and family for generations.
Growing up surrounded by the hum of saws and the smell of fresh-cut lumber, Janet never imagined she’d one day run the office of her father’s sawmill. But when she graduated high school, unsure of her next steps, an opportunity arose. Her grandmother, who had managed the books for years, was ready to pass the responsibility on. Her dad needed someone he could rely on, and Janet didn’t hesitate to take on the role.
Little did she know, the skills she gained in those early years would become even more valuable when her husband, Brian, decided to start his own logging company. It was a leap of faith, one that came with its fair share of challenges.
“I was a little skeptical and very scared,” she admits. “But I am so thankful that he stuck with it through many difficult times.”
What started as a dream has now become a family legacy. Lewis Timber Inc. has grown from a single crew into an award-winning operation, recognized for its commitment to stewardship and sustainability. But for Janet, the greatest reward isn’t in the accolades—it’s in the people.
“We have definitely come a long way, but the best part is now having our kids as part of the business as well,” she says.
Beyond her role at Lewis Timber, Janet is a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother. When she’s not managing the business, she enjoys watching Auburn sports and spending time with friends and family. No matter where life takes her, she stays grounded in faith, gratitude, and the deep-rooted legacy of hard work passed down through generations.