Calvin C. Lyons Jr.

Loving Husband, Superhero Dad, Amazing Papa, Protective Big Brother, Phenomenal Friend and Mentor to Many. Calvin C. Lyons Jr. was born October 20, 1950 in Charleston, Mississippi to Mary Lyons and Calvin C. Lyons Sr. He was the oldest of 8 siblings and affectionately known as Junior. The Lyons family later relocated to Chicago, Illinois. Calvin graduated from DuSable High School. After secular education, he began working on his theocratic education. Calvin took what he was learning very seriously and soon dedicated his life to Jehovah. He symbolized his dedication and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on April 20, 1975. On January 8, 1977, Calvin married his wife Darlene, whom he affectionately called “Lene.” They welcomed to their union three daughters. He embraced spiritual truths wholeheartedly and served as an Elder for many years. Nothing was more important than the field ministry. He took seriously Matthew 28:19-20 where Jesus commands us to “preach the good news of God’s Kingdom”. He enjoyed being out in the ministry. He and his wife had the privilege of serving as pioneers together for the last 10 years. Calvin was loved by everybody. He was a man of few words who took responsibility seriously. He gave himself unselfishly, not only to his family members but also to those in the congregation, to neighbors and to strangers. He took a special interest in young ones, often mentoring them and in older ones, making sure they made it to and from meetings, doctors appts and more. Those who knew Calvin, knew how important being on time was to him. He was always one of the first to arrive at the Hall for the meetings. He would love to greet the friends and new ones as they arrived. Calvin was always a hard-worker and provider. He retired from ComEd after 31 years of service. While there, he gained friendship of brothers he worked with and the respect of many. Calvin loved bowling, fishing, playing cards, spending time with his family, vacationing with family and friends. He enjoyed music, even though he didn’t like to dance. The scripture says, “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35). Calvin showed himself to be happy through his selfless acts of his time and resources. He was a provider, nurturer, jokester, real confidant, and a spiritual man. Calvin C. Lyons Jr. fell asleep in death unexpectedly on April 16, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents: Mary Lyons and Calvin C. Lyons Sr.; and his two brothers: Anthony and Eddie. Calvin leaves to cherish his loving memories, his wife of 42 years: Darlene; their three daughters: Lanise (Thomas), Latrise, and Lauren (Shecoby); two sons from a previous union: Calvin III and Ronnie; siblings: Cora Ann, Judio (Bertha), Shirley Jean, Janice (Simon), and Pamela; grandchildren: Zaire, Kosi, Giya, Amir, Amirah, Maurice, Ronnie Jr, Errington, Justin, Tyre, Ashley, and Calvonna; and a host of other relatives, friends and spiritual family members. Calvin is truly missed by all who cherish many memories. We cannot wait to welcome him back!

Tributes

Calvin C. Lyons Jr.

October 20, 1950 - April 16, 2019