Obituary of James Lyons

Lt. Col. James C. Lyons, U. S. Army Retired Lt. Col. James C. Lyons, 88, of Charlotte, died peacefully on July 14, 2012, surrounded by family. J. C. was born on August 27, 1923 in Temple Hill, KY, son of the late Homer George Lyons and Zelma Biggers Lyons. He graduated with a B. S. degree from Western Kentucky University. He served in the army from 1942 to 1946 as combat infantryman with the 37th division in the south Pacific, during which he was decorated for bravery. In 1950 he was recalled to active duty and served 2 years in the Korean War, where he received a direct commission. He stayed in the army reserve until retiring in 1972 as a Lt. Colonel. J. C. was a salesman and branch manager for LeFebure Corporation for 42 years. His favorite hobby was golfing at Myers Park Country Club with his longtime friends. He loved his church, St. John?s Baptist, and served faithfully there for many years. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death a daughter, Elizabeth; and a sister. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ellen, and three children and their families: Jay Lyons of Salt Lake City, UT, his wife Melinda and children Robyn and Alec; Laura Bailet of Jacksonville, FL, her husband Peter and children Lindsey and Zach; and Ashley Lyons of Charlotte. A memorial service will be held at St. John?s Baptist Church at 11 AM on Tuesday, July 17. The Reverend Dr. Dennis Foust will officiate. Honorary pallbearers will be the Durden Sunday School class. The family will receive friends in Broach Hall following the service. Interment is private. The family wishes to thank Dr. Danny Honeycutt for his tender care of J. C. in his later years, along with the nursing staff in the Special Care unit of Plantation Estates. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to St. John?s Baptist Church discretionary fund or Crisis Ministry. Mr. Lyons lived with courage, conviction, and goodness, which will serve as a light for all to follow as we honor his memory.