Richard Young Lyons

Richard Young Lyons was born on September 26, 1945, in Washington, DC. He was the eldest child of the late Air Force Lt. Col. Jack and Mrs. Elinor (Mather) Lyons.

Growing up in a military family stationed worldwide fostered Richard’s love of travel and deep respect for the military. After proudly serving in the US Navy, where he discovered his passion for aircraft while working as an avionics specialist on P-2 aircraft, he spent the remainder of his career with Lockheed Martin, moving up the managerial ranks in aviation and space divisions. He retired in 2000 after serving as the Vice President of Operations at the Donaldson Aircraft Center in Greenville, SC. He did an additional six years as a consultant for various aircraft and aviation companies before his official retirement in 2006.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas G. Lyons. His memory will continue to live on with his wife of 48 years, Joella, two children, Erin Lyons, Jennifer (Lyons) Lecuyer, and her husband Ray, and two grandchildren, Samantha and Andrew. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Elizabeth (Lyons) Murray-Kolb of Seguin, Texas, her husband Kevin, and one beloved nephew, Michael Murray, of San Diego, Ca., his wife, Tabitha, and their son, Roger, and good friends Walter and Patti Hahne, of Simpsonville, SC. Finally, we recognize Maggie, Richard’s beloved dog, who will miss her daily walks and belly rubs with her best friend.

Richard loved to play golf, work in the yard and garage at home, and work on various small home improvement projects. He loved to be with his wife and family most of all. His favorite way to connect with people was over the breakfast table at home or Cracker Barrel.

A memorial service for Richard will be held on November 17, 2022 at 2:00 PM with a reception to follow at Mackey Funerals and Cremations 311 Century Drive Greenville, SC 29607.

Donations may be made to causes near Richard’s heart: The Wounded Warrior Project and The Lupus Foundation of America.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mackeycenturydrive.com for the Lyons family.