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James LYLES Obituary
He was born Jan. 15, 1927, to the late Sherman Lyles and Reather Moncreif, in Blackville, S.C.
James was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was a veteran of the United State Navy and served 30 years. After his military service, James worked at the Norfolk Naval Base until his retirement. He was an avid gardener and a baseball fan.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Shirley D. Lyles; two sons, Jack Francis (Tina Johnson) of Hampton, Gary Francis (Dr. Winifred Jackson-Francis) of Clinton, Md.; four grandchildren, Perry Alan Francis of Brockton, Mass., Tasha Jordan of Norfolk, Va., Jack L. Francis of Hampton, Va., and Sarah Francis of Clinton, Md.; four great grandchildren and two great great-grandchildren.
We would like to thank the staff members of the Piedmont and Warwick Units. A special thanks to Nina, Harris, Sharon, Rose and Sheree for their loving and compassionate care for "Chief."
A Graveside Service with full military honors will be held 11a.m., Monday, Jan. 18, 2010, at Hampton Memorial Gardens. Viewing will be from 11am. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.
Arrangements are by O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James LYLES
Anne Gardner
January 27, 2010
Mr. Lyles was one of our favorite patrons at the Main Library on Victoria Boulevard in Hampton. He was always so pleasant, and wore a smile along with it. It was a joy to check out his videos and to have a little chat along with it. We have missed him for a long while and were concerned about him.
I am sure he will be missed by his loved ones. We miss him too. Our sympathy to his family. Anne S Gardner
Sherri Cary, Warwick Unit
January 20, 2010
My sincere thoughts and prayers go out to Mrs. Lyles and family. I'm happy that I was able to care for your loved one. Hope to see you again Mrs. Lyles and I am glad to be able to let you know I have not stopped thinking about "Chief" since his homecoming! He will always have a special place in my heart! Please visit us again on the Warwick Unit! Love Always, Sherri!
Nina Greenhow
January 20, 2010
Mrs. Shirley,
I will treasure the memories of "Chief" forever. He will always be remembered and has a special place in my heart. Stay strong as I know you will.
Love you always,
NINA
January 18, 2010
Sister Lyles and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your moments of bereavement. My God bless you and keep you in the days of come.
Pastor Carson and Sister Vickie Jones and Family
January 18, 2010
Mrs. Lyles, Jack and Gary:
My prayers are with you all on today as you go thru this trying time. He truly touched the lives of all around him with his kind deeds and kind smile. He was indeed a blessing in the lives of his grandchildren, and he will not be forgotten. May the grace of God saturate you with his peace, now and forever. Be blessed and know that God is in control!
With much love and affection...
Shirley Francis, Norfolk, Virginia
Melvin Willisms
January 17, 2010
Shirley,Jack,gary: I bid farewell to a shipmate,mentor and friend. I hold his memories close to my heart. Sincere condolences to you and all your families. Sincerely, Melvin Williams, Sr.
January 17, 2010
My deepest condolence to my aunt shirley love always. Fred O Brown Jr
Fred Brown
January 17, 2010
My deepest condolence to my aunt shirley love always. Fred O Brown Jr
Willie H. Jackson Jr.
January 16, 2010
Gary, my deepest condolence to you and your family. If there is anything that I can do for you please let me know brother.
Willie H. Jackson Jr. and the entire Jackson family.
Willie H. Jackson Jr.
January 16, 2010
Gary, my deepest condolence to you and your family. If there is anything that I can do for you brother in law please let me know.
Willie H. Jackson Jr. and the entire Jackson family.
January 16, 2010
Gary, my deepest condolence to you and your family. If there is anything that I can do for you brother in law please let me know.
Willie H. Jackson Jr. and the entire Jackson family.
January 16, 2010
Gary, my deepest condolence to you and your family. If there is anything that I can do for you brother in law please let me know.
On behalf of the Willie Jackson Jr. and the entire Jackson family.
Mike Hanson
January 16, 2010
My condolences to James family.
I had served with James on the USS Thomas Jefferson
my memory of him is of a very humble and graceful man
he served his country well.
O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home
January 16, 2010
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Elesta White
January 15, 2010
Dear Shirley & Family,
You have my heartfelt sympathy in the loss of your dear departed husband. May God, in his infinite wisdom, bring comfort to you and your family.
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O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home3009 Chestnut Avenue, Newport News, VA 23607
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