Els Versteijnen, the wife of Piet died on 8^th July after a long illness.

Els was a great, long-time fan of Jerry and a good friend to the whole Lewis family and to all of us fans.

Els was a familiar sight at Jerry�s shows for over 20 years and often wore a red hat like the one in the picture � Jerry could always spot Els from the stage!

Anyone who has known Jerry for a long time knows there have been times of great elation and there have also been some difficult times too. 

Wherever Jerry goes there are long-time fans he knows and trusts. In Holland it was Wim and Ans, and Piet and Els. When Jerry thought a promoter would try to claim back his fee � it was Els and Piet who Jerry trusted to hide the money.

Els had a long standing relationship with Phoebe and they often went shopping together whether it was in Memphis, in Holland or in Bocholt.

Els was also great with us fans.  She was always smiling and we still had great times even when shows were cancelled.

A couple of years ago I donated an old Memphis Beat LP to be raffled at the fan club meeting. The record had been signed by Jerry and all the members of that old band. When I drew the winning ticket it was Els who had won. Els was absolutely delighted and I was glad to make the day for her as Els and Piet have helped me so much over the years.

Jerry will miss seeing Els at the shows and we fans will miss Els too.  Els was a really good person and my condolences go Piet and the family.

Graham