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Bonita Lyons Obituary

Dr. Bonita Lyons

Memphis, TN

Dr. Bonita Lyons entered into eternal rest May 8, 2017, surrounded by her family. Her life was a model of encouragement and perseverance. Born in New Albany, MS she was preceded in death by her parents V. T. and Mary Ruth Aldridge Lyons. She is survived by her sister ZonaDale Taylor (Charles) of Collierville, TN, many cousins and an extensive number of U of M "children and family". She was a member of Church of the Holy Communion.

After graduating from Ole Miss she worked as a counselor for Shelby State Community College. While there she earned her Doctor of Education at the University of Memphis. She joined the University in 1985 where she inspired countless adult students and student athletes to persevere and complete their degrees. She was an avid supporter of the TIGERS. Dr. Lyons was named the Director of Academic Status and Retention Services in 1992 and held that post until her retirement from the University in 2008. Honors included the Pyramid Award for Student Services, the Distinguished Professional Advising Award and the Ralph Hatley Silver M Award. She served as a board member for the Mid-South Association for Training and Development and the Tennessee Board of Regents Ad Hoc Committee on developmental education.

Furthering her interest in education, she donated her body to Genesis/MERI for scientific medical research. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to continue her legacy of service and faith to students by contributing to The Dr. Bonita Lyons Memorial. http://supportum.memphis.edu/Bonita_Lyons_Memorial.

A Memorial Service is to be held at The Penny Hardaway Hall of Fame on the campus of The University of Memphis, 570 Normal Street on May 23rd at 5 p.m. Visitation 4:30 – 5 p.m.

Published by The Commercial Appeal on May 21, 2017.
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I just heard the sad news. She would have been glad to hear I got another Master's degree and have been awarded a full ride to a Doctoral program. I never would have gone back to college had it not been for her. I got them all under my belt by 50!!!! At least she wrote my reference letters for both. She will be missed as she has a very special place in my heart. I still talk about her making me take a First Aid class so that an A would keep me off probation. She laughed when I told her I had to wrap Keith Lee's foot (with a ruler no less). I hope you are dancing and singing joyously and watching over those of us that you saved. Rest in peace my dear one.

Wendy Mincer

June 29, 2017

So proud of all your accomplishments.

Phyllis Matkins Shirley

May 21, 2017

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Memorial Events
for Bonita Lyons

May

23

Visitation

4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

TN

May

23

Memorial service

5:00 p.m.

The Penny Hardaway Hall of Fame on the campus of The University of Memphis

570 Normal Street, TN

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