UNION, WV---Azel Grant Lewis, age 88, of Union, West Virginia died July 18, 2016 at Springfield Center in Lindside, after a long illness. Azel served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a graduate of New Mexico State University and was elected to Alpha Sigma Honorary Agricultural fraternity. He was also a member of Sigma Alpha Elpsilon fraternity.

Azel was manager of Beef Research Unit at the University of Florida for several years. He was later a long-time and well-known leader in artificial insemination of large herds of beef cattle at Duda Ranch in Florida. He was a member of the the National Cattlemen's Beef Association and past president of the West Virginia Cattleman's Association, as well as the Monroe County Cattlemen. The U.S. Commissioner of Agriculture appointed Azel as a charter member of the National Check-Off Board. His life was spent in the cattle business and in the breeding of registered Quarter Horses.

In 1984, Azel originated the idea to promote beef by selling beef BBQ sandwiches at Farmer's Day and that is a popular program to this day with the Cattlemen. Proceeds fund scholarships for Monroe County students.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Shirley; a son, Charles, of Gainesville, Florida; a beloved step-son, Todd A. Smith, of Melborne, Florida, and their families, as well as a host of friends. Azel was affiliated with the Gap Mills Methodist Church.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 27th, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 7:00 p.m. at Groves Funeral Home Chapel in Union, WV, with Pastor Gene Fullen officiating. Internment will follow later in Melborne, Florida. Those wishing to send the Lewis Family online condolences or sign the online guestbook may do so by visiting www.grovesfuneralhome.com Groves Funeral Home in Union, WV is serving the Lewis Family.