Former NSW premier Tom Lewis dies

Former NSW premier Tom Lewis has died, aged 94.

The Liberal Party member, who served as premier for one year between 1975 and 1976, died on Anzac Day, leaving behind a wife, two children, two step-children and seven grandchildren.

Mr Lewis made important contributions to conservation and the environment in the state, particularly in his establishment of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of NSW, Premier Mike Baird said on Wednesday.

Mr Lewis had a particular affinity for the environment and landscape of the state's west, despite his South Australian origins and home in Wollondilly, Mr Baird said.

"Unfortunately I never met Mr Lewis, who had been ill for a number of years, but I acknowledge with thanks his service to the Liberal Party, to the nation during his war service with the AIF, and to NSW as its premier," he said in a statement.

Mr Lewis represented the southwestern seat of Wollondilly for more than 20 years before he retired in 1978.

His state funeral will take place later in May.