Christopher H. Lyons

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Long Island University

Christopher Lyons Obituary

Lyons, Christopher H.
Apr. 29, 1955 - May 31, 2015
Christopher Hargrave Lyons, 60, of Sarasota died May 31, 2015. He was born in Glen Cove New York, the middle of three sons of John R. and Judy R. (Leto) Lyons. He received a B.S. degree in Accounting from C.W. Post College, Long Island University, was a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Government Finance Officer and a Certified Public Finance Officer.
Chris retired from a 25 year career at the City of Sarasota, where he served as Finance Director from 2007 to 2013. Previously he worked for Touche Ross in New York and then Valdez, McLain, Pratt & Co. as Managing Partner of the Sun City Center office in Florida. He served as President of the Florida Government Finance Officers Association in 2011-12 and was the recipient of their 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award. He was highly regarded for his exceptional leadership skills, his uncompromising ethics, and his diplomatic and light-hearted approach to problem solving. Chris was an active member of Covenant Life Presbyterian Church serving as a Deacon and Small Group Leader.
Chris is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Bonnie, his son Gregory, his daughter and son-in law, Heather and Calvin Horst and their 7 month old son Elijah. He is also survived by his brothers Jonathan R. Lyons of Laveen, AZ and William P. Lyons of Sarasota, FL.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Covenant Life Presbyterian Church, 8490 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34238 on Saturday June 6th at 2:00 pm. Donations may be made to Covenant Life Presbyterian Church or Tidewell Hospice, Sarasota.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Herald Tribune from Jun. 4 to Jun. 5, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Lyons

12 Entries

June 12, 2015

Chris was the best finance professional I worked with during my career. That said, he was an even better person and that is the hallmark of his legacy.

Debbie Bautista

June 8, 2015

I met Chris through his involvement with the Southwest Florida Chapter of FGFOA. I always respected his ability to facilitate and bring people together, and I will never forget the kindness he showed to new members and those of us who have been around for quite awhile. He always had a big smile on his face and a hug and embrace when he hadn't seen some of us for awhile. Most importantly, he gave his time and efforts to make our organization better and made contributions that will forever move not only the SWFL chapter, but the FGFOA state organization forward. My thoughts and prayers are with Chris's family, whom I never had the privilege of meeting, but please know that this great man made a mark in history. He will be greatly missed.

Terry Sharp

June 6, 2015

I worked with Chris.with FGFOA. he was always helpful and professional. My prayers are with his family.

Sherina Roberson

June 5, 2015

I had the honor of working with Chris Lyons for some years, I remembered that day all so well when he first came aboard with the City of Sarasota. Chris will certainly be missed, he has been a great help to me throughout my years with the City, a great co-worker and an awesome Finance Director. My prayers are that the family will find strength, comfort and peace in the Lord to get through these rough times.

Kim DeNais

June 5, 2015

I will always remember Chris with his ever present smile. He was most definitely a great soul. I always prayed for him thru his battle and will continue to pray for his family. He will truly be missed.

Stacey Monroe

June 5, 2015

Chris was and always will be a God sent Angel. He graciously assisted you and painstakingly made sure you understood the process. He will be missed greatly. So sorry I am unable to make the Celebration of Life, as I am out of town. Just remember, he is the Angel on your shoulders now.
With deepest Sympany,

Buster Chapin

June 4, 2015

Although Chris and I worked in different departments at the City of Sarasota, we would often cross paths in the lunch room or the hallway. I will remember he always had something to say that would make me smile and or chuckle. My thoughts and condolences are with his family.

Bobbi Wernle

June 4, 2015

Chris was such a charismatic person. I had the pleasure of working with Chris as a vendor for many years. He was a very gentle soul and always made everyone feel good about life, no matter what was going on. Chris will be greatly missed! May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Sheryl Wagoner

June 4, 2015

Such a great loss...I worked with Chris for many years at the City of Sarasota, he was a great co-worker, mentor and friend, he always gave the greatest advice, he loved his family and God...May God wrap his loving arms around you all and give you comfort and peace.

With Deepest Sympathy,
Sheryl (Knauer) Wagoner

Karen Burdine

June 4, 2015

I had the pleasure of working for Chris for many years in the accounting department. There was never a more gentle soul or gentleman. Bonnie and family, know that you have your own special guardian angel to watch over you.

Kathy Lukas

June 4, 2015

So sorry to hear of Chris' passing. I worked with him at the City of Sarasota for many years, and he was a great help to me. My thoughts and prayers to your family. God got another angel.

Carolyn Lepretre

June 4, 2015

Sincere condolences from the employees of Mitchell Humphrey & Co. Chris was a pleasure to work with and a dedicated person. Celebrate his life!

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