James Paul Lyon

James Paul Lyon, 92, passed away peacefully in the early hours of August 4th, 2026, at his home outside of Lake Wales, Florida, after a brief illness. He was comforted in his last moments by the company of his beloved wife of nearly 71 years, as well as family, friends, and wonderful caregivers.

James “Jim” Paul—known lovingly as Pop, Poppy, Hot Do, and Big Jim—was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, humor, and generosity touched everyone who knew him.

He was born in Louisa, Kentucky, on April 30, 1934, to Jesse Duell Lyon and Lorna Ellen (Curnutte) Lyon, who predecease him.

He is survived by his beloved and loving wife, Agnes (Bradley) Lyon, 90, to whom he has been married since September 1, 1955; three siblings: Joyce Ray Wilson (Dick Wilson, deceased) of Tallahassee, Florida; Charles Edwin Lyon (Patsy Sparks Lyon) of Huntington, West Virginia; Anna Sue Patton (Kelly Patton, deceased) of Columbus, Ohio; four children: James David Lyon (Rebecca Combs Lyon), of Crescent Springs, Kentucky; Jesse Craig Lyon (Lesli Lycan Lyon) of Allen, Texas; Clay Bradley Lyon (Pam Norris Lyon) of Russell, Kentucky; and Lauranne Lyon Guinn (Doug Guinn) of Florence, South Carolina; ten grandchildren: Ellen Lyon Crum (Scott Crum) of Independence, Kentucky; Laura Alison Lyon of Portland, Oregon; Taylor Bradley Lyon (Beth Slavic Lyon) of Mt. Dora, Florida; William Combs Lyon, of Crescent Springs, Kentucky; Shannon Lyon Clark (Kasey Clark) of Groveland, Florida; Carter Craig Lyon (Hanna Jacunski Lyon) of Austin, Texas; Patricia Michelle Lyon (Walker Patton) of Nelson, British Columbia; Lauren Delaney Guinn Monteleone (Matt Monteleone) of Palmetto, Florida; Jesse Lyon of Clermont, Florida; and Jackson Douglas Guinn (Lily Rath) of Winter Park, Florida; four great grandchildren: Kathryn Louise Crum, Kasey Ann Crum, James Preston Clark and Dean Matthew Clark; and numerous relatives, friends, co-workers and fishing buddies.

Jim graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1959 and built a successful career with Firestone, Ashland Oil, and Big Sandy Asphalt, spanning 37 years and cultivating lifelong friendships. He was known for his strong work ethic and deep knowledge of his industry

For the last 30 years, Jim and Agnes made their home in Lake Wales, FL, where they enjoyed fishing, welcoming friends to share stories and laughter, and creating lasting memories with family. He was, in every sense of the word, a good man, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.