John-Lyons-Obituary

John Lyons

Frederick, Maryland

Nov 5, 1930 – Mar 14, 2024

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BORN
November 5, 1930
DIED
March 14, 2024
LOCATION
Frederick, Maryland

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John W. Lyons, a renowned scientist who led civilian and military technology organizations for the federal government in the 1990s and was widely considered one of the world's foremost experts on the chemistry of fire, died March 14, 2024, in Frederick, MD, after a brief illness. He was 93.A...

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I was in the Center for Fire Research from the time he Joined NBS and to the time, coincidentally, we both left. I left to join the University of Maryland fire program and each day I took New Hampshire Avenue going to College Park. In the summer the traffic is light. Durning that summer while we were still at NBS I told John that it was the best route to take when he joined the Army Lab. He did on the first day school opened. On that day I was stuck in traffic on New Hampshire for 40...

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Dr. John W. Lyons was the 9th Director of NBS/NIST. He oversaw the transition of NBS to NIST. He was the right person for that task, given his scientific background and industry experience. He was a gentleman and a scholar. He always listened to his colleagues, visited our labs and encouraged us. He always had a smile on his face, even when he provided some criticism. He had a very warm place in my heart, since we shared an interest in combustion processes, and we had several...

Cluster of 50 Memorial Trees

My Dear Uncle John has always been a great inspiration to me in every way, and I have been in awe of him my entire life. His brilliant mind has always shone brightly and touched not only those close to him, but also an international world of others who have never experienced the honor of knowing him. His accomplishments must be placed into a superlative category of their own... so utterly impressive. What has also touched me deeply was his huge tender heart that allowed him to adore his...

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I remember meeting Dr Lyons soon after the family moved in, and enjoyed going to school with John and MaryAnn. The 200 year old house was a frequent stop on our bicycle rides, even before when the Clough family lived there. Words are never enough when a loved one dies, but please know I mourn with you for the passing of your husband/ dad/ granddad.

My condolences to the Lyons family and to the many friends of John. I'm especially thankful for John's many valuable contributions to NIST and for his dedication to excellence in government services.

Dr. Lyons was a revered and inspiring leader for NIST as our 9th Director. He led us steadily through years of change and helped shape what NIST is today. On behalf of the entire NIST/NBS family, I send my deepest condolences. He was one of us and we will miss him. Warmly, Laurie Locascio, NIST Director