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Leonard Lyles Obituary
Lyles was a native of Nashville, TN. His parents moved to Louisville when Lyles was 3. Lyles was a star athlete at Central High School. Recruited by the University of Louisville in 1954, he broke the school's color barrier for scholarship athletes. Known as a speedster, Lyles played football as a running back and ran track at U of L. Converted to a defensive back in the pro's, he played 12 seasons in the NFL, including 10 for the Baltimore Colts and two years with the San Francisco Forty-Niners. During his NFL Career, Lyles also began a 27-year career as an executive with Brown and Williamson Tobacco Corp (BATUS) in Louisville. He was also an entrepreneur in number of business ventures. He opened Lyles Plaza in 1979, and later, with two business partners, added Lyles Mall. Both are on West Broadway. Lyles also helped revitalize the Smoketown area, where he grew up. One of the accomplishments Lyles was most proud of was serving as a mentor and role model for minority youths. He was also a generous contributor to various local charities, particularly those that are minority based. Lyles was a member of the West Broadway Church of Christ.
He was preceded in death by sons, Christopher Lyles and Michael Lyles; his mother, Alice Lyles of Louisville; and a sister, Doris Ferrell of Atlanta, GA.
Survivors include Lyles' wife, Faith Lyles; a son, Leonard "Everett" Lyles, Jr.; two nieces and several cousins.
Lyles' body will be cremated. A memorial celebration of Lyles' life is planned for this winter. A date has not been set.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Lenny Lyles Scholarship Fund, c/o Katina Whitlock, U of L Office of Development, Louisville KY 40292.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Leonard Lyles
6 Entries
Anthony Senior
February 25, 2021
My condolences to the Lyles family. I will ALWAYS remember his loving wife Faith, and son Lenny. My friend and neighbor for four years.
Anthony Senior (Elijah the Prophet)
November 26, 2011
My heartfelt sympathy to the entire Lyles Family. My memories and friendship with Lenny will never be forgotten. Clarence Spencer - Columbus GA.
Bobbie Rouben
November 23, 2011
My heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Lenny. My husband, Joe Rouben, (of blessed memory) enjoyed so much telling me all about his visits to our drug store. He enjoyed his visits so much. May his memory be a blessing and give you peace. Sincerely, Bobbie Rouben
Pearl Patterson
November 23, 2011
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Lyles once & it was very memorable. He was funny, kind & a gentleman. May God bless his family & friends.
LaWanda Page
November 23, 2011
Such a great and giving person. I recall asking Mr. Lyles to help us buy track uniforms for Central High School's Track & Field Teams to wear at the first Lenny Lyles Track and Field Invitational held at the new Central Football Stadium; without hesitation he wrote a check on the spot for the entire amount.
Carolyn LaChance
November 23, 2011
I send my sympathy to Lenny's wife, son and family. I was a friend of Lenny's at U of L, and followed his career thereafter. He was such a good person and wonderful mentor.
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