Daina Lewis Moline IL Death and Obituary – The community of Moline, Illinois, is grappling with the untimely loss of Daina Lewis, a cherished yoga instructor, wellness advocate, and pillar of local health and mindfulness initiatives. Daina passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2025, leaving behind a profound void in the hearts of her family, friends, students, and the broader community she worked so hard to uplift.
Daina Lewis was an experienced and certified yoga instructor with more than 20 years of practice. Holding the esteemed credentials of E-RYT 500 and YACEP, she was a fixture in the local wellness scene and was known for her compassionate approach to yoga and holistic health. Her expertise extended beyond traditional yoga teaching to include Thai bodywork, a skill she honed through her affiliation with Sanctuary Studios. Daina’s commitment to the well-being of others led her to study at the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts, where she deepened her knowledge of mind-body wellness and healing techniques.
A proud graduate of Moline High School, Daina remained deeply connected to her roots throughout her life. Her commitment to Moline and its people was evident in every aspect of her work. Daina was the founder of “Yoga with Daina Marie,” a yoga practice that emphasized inclusivity and accessibility. Through this initiative, she ensured that yoga was not a luxury or something out of reach, but a practice available to individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Students frequently described her classes as welcoming spaces, filled with warmth and encouragement, where personal growth was nurtured in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
In addition to her yoga teachings, Daina was a staunch advocate for mental health awareness. She worked closely with local organizations to host workshops and seminars aimed at promoting holistic well-being, mental health, and self-care. Her holistic approach to wellness made her an influential voice in the community, as she often collaborated with others to create events that combined physical, emotional, and mental health practices. Her dedication to wellness was not only reflected in her work but in the sense of community she fostered among her students and colleagues.
Those who had the privilege of working with or learning from Daina remember her as more than just a yoga instructor. She was a mentor, a guide, and a friend. “Daina had an incredible way of making everyone feel seen and valued,” shared a longtime student. “Her guidance went beyond physical practice; she nurtured our spirits.” This deeply personal connection was one of the hallmarks of Daina’s teaching style—her ability to nurture the minds and hearts of her students, fostering a deep sense of belonging and personal empowerment.
Daina is survived by her husband, James H. Lewis, and a tight-knit family who supported her every step of the way. The Lewis family has expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received in this difficult time.
To honor Daina’s legacy, a memorial service will be held at the Moline Public Library, a location where Daina frequently conducted community classes. The service will not only commemorate her life but also celebrate the impact she made on the wellness community and the countless lives she touched with her spirit of kindness and commitment.
Daina’s death has left an irreplaceable gap in the lives of those who knew her, but her legacy will endure. Her contributions to the Moline community, her holistic approach to wellness, and the compassion she shared with others will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. In her memory, Daina’s influence will live on, motivating others to approach life with empathy, resilience, and a deep commitment to personal well-being.