Barbara Lyons

1941 - 2026

POLSON - Barbara Louise (Kroll) Lyons passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on January 29, 2026, at the age of 84. Barbara was born on June 12, 1941, in Kellogg, Idaho, the youngest child of Egon H. Kroll and Charlotte (Ahlquist) Kroll.

She grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho, graduating from Twin Falls High School in 1959. She went on to attend the University of Idaho, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education. While there, she was a proud member of Alpha Phi sorority, where she met the love of her life, Frank.

Barbara and Francis J. Lyons were married in May 1962. After completing their degrees in 1963, they began a lifelong partnership grounded in love, respect, and devotion to family. Together they raised three children: David Michael Lyons, Richard Kevin Lyons, and Deborah Jean (Lyons) McGuinness. Barbara created a warm, welcoming home filled with encouragement and kindness. As a family, they shared a love of the outdoors, spending winters skiing and summers at Rose Lake at the family cabin, building memories that would last a lifetime.

Barbara was deeply involved in her community. An active member of the Episcopal Church, she served as secretary, vestry member, and choir director. She was also a devoted member of P.E.O., finding friendship and sisterhood wherever she and Frank lived.

She was known as a loving wife, devoted mother, and steadfast friend. Barbara and Frank modeled what it meant to cherish relationships and care deeply for others.

She is survived by her sons, David Michael (Kody) Lyons and Richard Kevin (Janet) Lyons; her daughter, Deborah Jean (Chris) McGuinness; and four beloved granddaughters, Kayla, Ashley, Brenna, and Shea. She was preceded in death by her husband, Francis J. Lyons; her parents; and her brother, Fredric Kroll. Barbara's life was defined by love, faith, family, and friendship. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Polson, Mont.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church of Polson or the P.E.O. Foundation in her honor. Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.