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Lenny Lyles Obituary
University of Louisville coach Charlie Strong confirmed Lyles' death on his Twitter feed.
Lyles stayed in Louisville after a 12-year career in pro football and was a successful businessman.
Lyles, who attended Central High School, was one of the first African-Americans to play for Louisville. Playing from 1954 to '57, he scored a school-record 42 touchdowns and was known as "The Fastest Man in Football."
He also was the first Cardinals player to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season.
Lyles, whose statue stands at Cardinal Park, was drafted in the first round of the 1958 draft by the Baltimore Colts.
Lyles played most of his NFL career with the Baltimore Colts, primarily as a defensive back.
After his career he remained in Louisville and was involved in several business ventures, including developing the Lyles Mall on West Broadway.
Memories and Condolences
for Lenny Lyles
128 Entries
Samuel K. Tarant Kaplan
January 16, 2022
I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Mr. Lyles on a project recognizing Brown and Williamson for its many local and national charitable endeavors.
It´s often said that "it´s not where you were...but WHO you were with " that matters most! My association with Mr. Lyles was one of the primary examples of the very meaningful time that I spent in Louisville.
J.P.
October 31, 2020
I only met Lenny one time at a Kentucky Football Hall of Fame induction in Lexington. I was on the UK football team in the mid 1970's. We talked for about half an hour about football and other things. He was a very nice fellow. I remember one thing he said about getting older which was "people don't remember you and what you did in football the older you get". I told him I remembered him from his days at UL and in Pro football from my younger days and he said he appreciated that. He will be greatly missed.
Susie Gruber
October 28, 2018
The Jim Gruber family lived next door on Loretta Ave. to the Lyles family.We loved Lenny and Faith, and their kids.So sorry to see Lenny passed away.Hopefully, he is RIP.God bless him and his family.❤
Denise Lyles'Carr
October 13, 2017
Sorry for your lost of this icon. I heard about Mr. Lyles when I was a little girl and I pray one day I would grow up to be someone special because we share the same last name. I would like to buy his jersey shirt from the NFL if they r still selling them. RIP
Y'vonne Harris
February 13, 2012
Dear Thelma,
My prayers are for you and your family.
Your old neighbor, Y'vonne Harris
Barbara Weaver Bishop
February 7, 2012
Faith, my heart goes out to you and your family.
Love you,
Your classmate - 1955
Pastor Anthony Mitchell
February 6, 2012
Mr. Lyles always set good example for those of us who grew up around 28th street in the late 70's and early 80's. His door was always opened and he never turned us away. Good Brother! Very Good Brother!
Douglas Boone
February 6, 2012
Hello Faith: Years ago you and I would chat during the various travel/tourism conventions(ASAE,NCBMP etc) we attended and I would always ask about Lenny. Althouh I was representing Boston, I was from Baltimore and he was always one of my favorite Colts growing up. I was sadden to hear of his passing and I thought of how nice and pleasant you were whenever we spoke. Please accept my condolences and may the Lord continue to bless you and your family.
E. Johnson
February 5, 2012
May God keep you during your time of sorrow. He will truly be missed.
February 5, 2012
May God Bless!!!
S McDonald
February 2, 2012
We will truely miss you.Rest in peace my prayer or with the family.
DeVon Duncan-Turner
February 1, 2012
Dear Faith,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I remember when you and Lenny first started dating and I would see the two of you together next door at the Bishop's house. That was many years ago so you have many memories to reflect upon that will comfort you during your grieving period and far beyond. God bless you and I hope to see you sometimes in the near future.
January 28, 2012
I was in college at the same time that Leonard was playing. We went to the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas. When we got there we were not allowed to stay in the hotel as we had 2 African-American players and we were bused to a motel outside the city. But we overcame by winning! Thanks Leonard for breaking some bounderies with class and going on to play with the Colts. Cheers!
Betsy Leathers Peak, Minneapolis, MN
will hall
January 26, 2012
There were many times I would stop by his bar on dixie hwy., and would hope he would be there. He always made you feel welcomed and wanted as a customer. He will be surely missed by all. Rest in peace .
Daphne Barham Pollard
January 24, 2012
I remember when Lenny played football, got married and purchased/owned the Lenny Lyles Plaza on W. Broadway. Sorry to hear about his passing, but he left behind a legacy!
January 23, 2012
A LOUISVILLE LEGEND a long way from smoketown
sam
January 21, 2012
Hola hermano Moodey, espero que todo estas bien. Por una situacion de salud el hermano Amado Gomez no vas a poder dar su discurso para la fecha 3-4-12. Al momento no podemos enviar otro, ya que solamente somos tres discursantes. Queria dejarte saber lo mas pronto posible para hacer que puedes hacer otros arreglos.
Terrie Davis
January 16, 2012
Rest in peace Mr. Lyles may your leagacy continue
January 12, 2012
Faith,
I am so sorry to hear about Lenny passing.You have my deepest sympathy.
Julie Metzler
Olive Marshall
January 4, 2012
Goodbye to Mr.Lyles.
Jacqueline Jones-Dorsey
December 23, 2011
I didn't know Mr Lyles but I must say that I heard a lot about him and the goodness he brought to our city. We don't have a lot of Black people our young people can look up to but Mr. Lyle certainly was one.
May God be with his family always.
December 21, 2011
Mr. Lyles thanks soo much for putting Louisville on the map when it came to FOOTBALL. I'm home grown and never heard anyone say one bad word about you. May GOD continue to bless your family. Also many thanks for Lyles Plaza the West End certainly needed it.
Glenn E. Morrison, Springfield, Va.
December 14, 2011
faith my prayers are with you.
harry lauderdale jr.
Gilbert P Huhlein Sr
December 14, 2011
It has been many a year ago when I ran track, 2 mile for UofL.(1955) I remember going to a NCAA Track event in Daton, Ohio with Lenny. We stayed in the same room for that night. I think UofL took 2nd place in the event and we receiced a trophy.
John W.
December 13, 2011
I feel blessed to say I idolized Lenny growing up as a fan of the Baltimore Colts. The Lyle family is in my prayers. My recently departed dad will show him around Heaven.
December 12, 2011
GLEN BRENT AND PAM BECK
Maurice Spratt
December 12, 2011
A great football person.And a great bussinessman.Lenny you always be remember.May god hold you in his everlasting care.A fan
Maurice Spratt
Yvonne Coleman-Bach
December 12, 2011
Faith, My prayers are with you for your loss. Lenny was truly a special person. I enjoyed spending time with him at the National Newspaper Publisher Association Conventions over the years. Everyone there loved Lenny and knew what a special person he was. He will truly be missed. I am so thankful I got to see you and Lenny at the West Louisille event in July! Please know that I am here for you if you need me.
December 9, 2011
Faith, I understand your loss and empathize and sympathize with you. God's grace will see you and your family (including your two dogs) through the grieving process.
Bridget Cleary
December 8, 2011
My prayers go out to your family at this time. Mr Lyles was a great man. I once had my picture taken with him at a fund raising event at Bashford Manor Mall. He was there with Paul Hornung. I will remember that Day always.
Sherry Durham
December 8, 2011
Sending my deepest sympathy to your family in this time of sadness.God bless you Lenny.You were one of the nicest men i ever had the pleasure of meeting.You lit up a lot of hearts in Louisville and you will always be remembered by the many people who knew you.R.I.P. Lenny.You are a angel so spread your wings and fly.
DeVon Turner
December 5, 2011
Dear Faith,
You and your family have my deepest sympathy. Lenny certainly made his mark in a positive way on our community; however, you were a key part in his success because of the support you lent to him as his wife.
May God give you the strength and peace to help you through this time of bereavement.
DeVon Duncan Turner
Kirby Hall
December 2, 2011
To the family of Mr Lyles and other family members,with Deepest Sympathy. I have know the Lyles for a long time starting with my auntie Pauline Carter of Loretta ave. May God bless you and your Family.
Ina Roby Carpenter
December 1, 2011
Faith, I have such fond memories of being your friend when my family lived across the road from your family on Hwy. 44 in Shepherdsville, and how impressed we were when you later married Lenny! Please know that I will be praying for you and your family during this sad time.
Clark B
December 1, 2011
To the Family of Mr. Lyles,
My deepest sympathy to you in this time of loss. I only met Lenny a couple of times but worked with Faith for several years and knew right away Lenny was a true gentleman and a loving and caring human being.
He will be missed, but not forgotten.
May God's peace be with you All.
Jan H. Clint
November 30, 2011
To the family of Lenny Lyles, and other family members. I grew up in the area of the shopping mall that was named after your husband. After reading about all the leadership and love, that you and your family contributed to Louisville it made a big difference to everyone that is apart of that community. We need more of your kind of family love for individuals to nourish, in times like these. May God continue to bless you and your family. Neighbor in the community that still matter's most.
West End Family
November 30, 2011
Prayers and Condolences to the Lyles family, He was a true hometown hero
Jackie Wilson
November 29, 2011
A greater leader, who always gave a hand up and a hand out to a worthy cause, community and/or to an individual. Your name will live on and your legacy will never die Mr. Lyles!
November 29, 2011
Dear Faith...you and your family are in my prayers.
Author Wilson, jr
November 29, 2011
R.I.P Mr. Lyles...... thank you for all that you did to make the city and community a better place
Janice Baker-Dishman
November 29, 2011
Faith,I am so sorry to hear of the passing of lenny. You have been through so much but the lord will keep you strong and get you through this.My prayers go out to you and your family.
November 28, 2011
Faith, I met you through Janet Irwin. My condolences in the loss of Lenny and our friend Janet. Ann Prentice, OSH
November 28, 2011
Faith: you have our family deepest thoughts and prayers. I will always be gratefull. when Lenny started the inner
city football league. I served as his first cheerleader coordinator(managed the west end yellow jackets, I still have the picture. The games were held at Shawnee high school (1975). All Little league today should be grateful
that Lenny founded the leagues here in
Louisville.Ky. "Greate if Thou Faithfulness." Bobbie D. Powell
Pete McGeehan, Louisville Jaycees
November 27, 2011
On behalf of the former Louisville Jaycees, our condolences to the Lyles family. We had the privilege of working with Lenny on the Lenny Lyles Inner City Football League for kids 14 and younger. What great memories we had
in seeing the great sportsmanship in the league, Lenny set the pace. God bless you Lenny.
November 27, 2011
Faith, You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Darlene Crowe Ayers, Shepherdsville, KY
Bill Layne
November 26, 2011
I remember 1954 when I first met Lenny and Geroge Cain. Tom Caras and I roomed in the next room in the old White Hall. We had some good times together.. I remember your and my parents becoming friends. I remember you meeting my son in your room in Atlanta while with colts. Thanks for the memories.
Lisa Jumper
November 26, 2011
Mr. Lyles was a treasured and dear friend and family member. While the time has gone by, the memories will not only console us during our process of grieving, they will help us to remember and continue your legacy. With all love & joy you gave us, I love you as a blessing and as my family, Cousin!
Darryl King
November 25, 2011
To the Lyles Family Lenny will be missed. I only got to me Lenny one time but I heard a lot about him thru my father George N. King Sr. I know that he will be missed by lots of people. My prays go out to you all, Darryl King.
mary derricotte
November 25, 2011
One of my most treasured supporters of my construction buisness,and as one of the most progressive black men I have known. Lenny you will always be in my heart. I know you will be very missed by your family
John E Johnson
November 25, 2011
We will all miss Lenny; he touched so many of our lives in so many untold ways. Condolences to his loved ones.
Sylvia Walters
November 24, 2011
Lenny, you are history, you are a legacy, it is a PRIVILEDGE to know you!
Rev. Justin Shamell
November 24, 2011
To Faith and the Lyles family, I offered my sympathy and prayers during this period of bereavement.
November 24, 2011
It's hard to find the words that express
our deepest and heartfelt sympathy for
your lost.With Sincere Condolences.
Sister & Brother-in-law of George King
November 24, 2011
May God comford your hearts today and
bless you with endearing memories that your hearts will always treasure.
With Sympathy and Prayers.
Modell & Peggy King- Cyrus Sister of (George King Sr.)
November 24, 2011
I remember Mr.Lyles as being a good and kind neighbor.Whenever I'd see him out and about,he'd always ask about me and the welfare of my family.Faith,I still remember fondly,all the outings you took all the kids out on on Loretta Ave.You and Everett are in my thoughts and prayers.Love you. Steve DeSha, Louisville,Ky.
Ralph Metcalf
November 24, 2011
Lenny lived a life that contributed so much to so many for so long.
He represented the best. In doing so, inspired me to do more than what others or myself thought was possible. To the family, I lift up my heart-felt prayers.
Christal Reed
November 24, 2011
Louisville has lost another gentle giant, who truly loved his city. Lenny was a very kind gentleman who always helped anyone in need. He will truly be missed. My prayers and love goes out to you his family.
November 24, 2011
I send our sincerest condolences to Faith and the family. We are sorry for your loss.
Betty Talbott Springfield (Ypsilanti, Michigan)
Martha Barnette
November 24, 2011
What a legacy! Faith, thinking of you and yours, and remembering fondly that dinner at Helen and Henlee's with y'all and the Nutts. Sending lots of love.
SUSIE GRUBER-BARR
November 24, 2011
I WAS SADDENED TO HEAR OF LENNY'S PASSING.ALTHOUGH IT HAS BEEN MANY YEARS AGO...I REMEMBER HOW NICE LENNY AND FAITH WERE.I LIVED NEXT DOOR TO YOU ALL ON LORETTA.MY PARENTS WERE JIM AND JANE GRUBER.MY SISTER AND I USED TO BABYSIT EVERETT WHEN HE WAS LITTLE.AFTER READING ALL THESE MEMORIALS I'D SAY HE WAS A GREAT MAN.GOD BLESS U ALL AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
Aubrey Kinzer
November 23, 2011
Prayers are extened to Lenny's family and he will be missed for being so many things to so many people.
Eugene Donan
November 23, 2011
Lenny never met a stranger as the saying goes.We worked together at Brown & Williamson years ago where I really got to know him on a personal level.Being the Director of Affirmative Action brought on a lot of racial pressure for him to satisfy so many who called on him for employment assistance. He handled his role with professionalism,integrity and grace.
Many people have a tendency to brag about their many accomplishments. Such was not the case with Lenny.
Jack Stultz
November 23, 2011
I watched Lenny play in almost everyone of his pro games when I was a kid growing up in Louisville and always admired his class and work ethic. My prayers go out to his family for the loss of a husband and a father but also a wonderful man who did so much for so many. As a graduate of the University of Louisville I would also like to recognize all of the work he did for the University over the years.
Chad Collins
November 23, 2011
I met Lenny a few times growing up. He was a child hood best friend of my Dad, Ted "Chad" Collins. Dad always boasted of the accomplishments of Mr. Lyles and the loyal friend that he was.
Martha Thomas
November 23, 2011
Had the pleasure to work with Lenny at Brown & Williamson. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by many.
Jean Thornton
November 23, 2011
to the Family of Lenny Lyles, May God Keep you in His loving arm
Julia Talbott
November 23, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lisa Moreman Lea
November 23, 2011
Mr. Lyles was a wonderful person who seemed to fill a room with laughter and friendship when he entered. May he rest in peace
Carl Jones
November 23, 2011
There will be an empty chair at the holiday table this year, but it will be filled with loving memories.
George Mason
November 23, 2011
To the entire Lyles family you have our sincere sympathy, know that earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal. We are keeping you in our prayers. Lenny will be missed, but I will always have our football memories from Central High.
George R.Mason Jr and family
willie wheeler jr.
November 22, 2011
thank you for all of your leadership
willie wheeler jr.
November 22, 2011
thank you Mr.Lyles your a great friend and mentor you will be forever missed!
November 22, 2011
Lenny Lyles Was A good friend and i will miss you my friend.
Sonny Griffin, Anchorage Alaska
John Cuby
November 22, 2011
Thank God for you Mr. Lyles. I will miss you. Much love.
November 22, 2011
To the family of Mr.Lenny Lyles,you all have my deepest sympathy.He was a wonderful man and did so much for Louisville.He is not far.He is always near.In the memories that you hold most dear.In the heart that still cares.In the love that goes on.He will never be far.He will never be gone.Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.Love leaves a memory no one can still.Debbie
November 22, 2011
What a terrific athlete and more importantly a terrific human being. This community is going to miss this wise, compassionate person. Glad I had the chance to meet him, play golf with him, and share his joy of life. Never forgotten.
otis cunningham
November 22, 2011
I thank God for the vision and work ethic of Lenny. He is a model, mentor, and motivator. He sowed seeds of significance in our lives.
Bless His Spirit
otis l. cunningham: mamager Porter Paint Co.28th Broadway, "1974"
James Marshall
November 22, 2011
Is was a honor to call Lenny Lyles a friend, Donna and I will miss him.
Barry King
November 22, 2011
I remember the first time I met Lenny. It was through my dad, George King, Sr. I called him Mr. Lyles and he insisted I call him Lenny. My dad said no he's been taught to call his elders "Mister or Miss". I remember that BIG LAUGH that shook the room as Lenny said, "George, the young man ain't a kid he's gonna call me Lenny. That's what all the young people call me. I'm not an elder." Lenny looked at me and said, "You call me Lenny, I'll take care of your Daddy. He may know how to box, but he can't handle me as a football player." He just laughed, as did my dad. My dad said, "OK Lenny, you win." He was a special person. He was always glad to see me when I was home for a visit and obviously he kept up with me and my brothers through our dad because he ALWAYS knew what we were doing when he saw us. My condolences go out to the entire Lyles Family. He was a very special person and remember he will "ALWAYS" be in your presence.
Joan Pedley
November 22, 2011
Mrs. Lyles,
I was a classmate of Chris' at St. Francis and met you and your husband then. I was in awe of you both and the example that you set for me and my classmates.
I am so sorry for your loss and pray that your memories will bring you peace in the days ahead.
Blessings to you and your family.
November 22, 2011
God Bless the family of Lenny Lyles..
Southeast Christian Church Family
Linda Keith
November 22, 2011
Dearest Faith:
My heart goes out to you. I was very fond of Lenny and enjoyed getting to know him at B&W. We have lost a great man. You're a very special lady.
Melissa Atherton
November 22, 2011
I did not know Mr. Lyles for a long time. I met him recently when I took care of him in the hospital. I could tell he was a humble man. He touched my life even the short time I took care of him. Louisville has lost a great role model. My prayers goes out to the Lyles family.
Sandra French
November 22, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Lyles family. May Lenny rest in peace.
Janice McQuany
November 22, 2011
Mr. Lyles is a primary example of how we should strive to live our lives and give back to the community. A truly great man. Rest in Peace.
nathaniel valentine
November 22, 2011
i have pancretic cancer,the doctor told me i had months to live,but its up the man up above?
nathaniel valentine
November 22, 2011
to the family of lenny lyles,lenny and i cousins.we graduated from central high school 1954,played football together.god bless the family we are from tenn,we are the jump family-valentines,hello faith.
Linda McGinity Jackson
November 22, 2011
Dear Faith and Family,
I had the pleasure of working with Lenny at BATUS many years ago. He was always such a gentleman, wise, caring, and had a great sense of humor. He was in HR and I was in PR so we often worked on delicate projects together. My husband and I would always look forward to running in to him (and you) at community occasions, football games, etc. He was a Legend in his own time and will remain a Legend to everyone who knew him. My sincere sypathies at this time of loss. You take care.
Sincerely,
Linda McGinity Jackson
Bonnie Mattingly
November 22, 2011
I know Lenny will be greatly missed,he was an awesome, loving,caring man! He did so much for Louisville, Ky. Prayers go out to your family and friends!! Rest in peace Lenny, God rest your soul!!
teresa d. wright
November 22, 2011
gone but not forgotten. r.i.p. mr lyles. blessings to the lyles family.
Sandy Metry
November 22, 2011
My dear Faith, I am so sorry - I just heard of Lenny's death. He did it all and even was lucky enough to get the most talented, beautiful young lady for miles around. You are in my prayers and will try to find your address or phone number. Sandy Metry
kenneth cook
November 22, 2011
To the family Lenny as been a positive force in louisville ky for many years , he has done wonderful thing to beautify the citys west end, he will truly be missed .
Janice Bishop Carter, Former Local Branch NAACP President
November 22, 2011
God bless the Lyles family; many in this community, as well as myself, shall remember the legacy and contributions your loved one left. May these memories bring you comfort during this time of grief.
November 22, 2011
Leonard Lyles by nature was an inspiration thru his lifes work.
This comes with gratitude and sympathy from a distant "family" member.
Faith, your brother Radford was my uncle. Uncle Radford and Aunt Essel's sons, Phil, Sr. and Rad, Jr. are my cousins along with their kids.
Again Faith -
With Sincerest Sympathy -
Essel Hodges Bishop & Family
Don Atkinson
November 22, 2011
Rest in piece, old friend!
Your running buddy from U.L.
white kid nextdoor
November 22, 2011
I remember when I was a kid growing up in the west end.Him and my grandpal talking about the bible together.He loved the community and worked with the youth.Thankyou for that.You will always be in our hearts.R.I.P Mr. Lyles.Prayers to your family and friends.
Eddie Ginsburg
November 22, 2011
Mrs. Lyles- I was a student of yours in the 60's. I often watched your TV show OMELET. You were always so kind. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dion Parkins
November 22, 2011
To the Lyles Family,
Mr. Lyles was truly a Louisville Legend, his legacy will continue to be a blessing for the Louisville West End Community. His many contributions are a depiction of what it means to "give back." Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Dion Coleman-Parkins
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