Ernest Bailey Lyles IV

On October 31, 2025, Ernest Bailey Lyles, IV, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 65. He was born on March 22, 1960, in Houston, Texas, to Ernest Bailey Lyles III and Margaret Claire Lyles.

Buddy grew up in Houston and graduated from Westbury High School. A lifelong Texan, he made countless memories surrounded by friends and family in the place he always called home. He was also a proud and devoted fan of the University of Texas Longhorns, never missing a chance to cheer them on-win or lose, he was loyal through and through.

He met the love of his life, Debbie, at Stampede Country Club, and the two were married on March 31, 1984. Buddy was a devoted husband and proud family man whose joy came from the people he loved most. He dedicated 43 years of service to Ridgways/ARC, where his loyalty, strong work ethic, and easygoing spirit earned him the respect and friendship of everyone who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Buddy cherished spending time with his family-watching his grandbabies play sports, taking his wife to the casino, and enjoying long drives in his convertible. He was known for his steady nature, sense of humor, and the way he made everyone feel like family.

Buddy faced some of life's hardest battles with unwavering strength and courage. Over the course of nine years, he fought through Amyloidosis, Throat Cancer, and Multiple Myeloma, enduring countless chemotherapy treatments, radiation sessions, a stem cell transplant, numerous doctor visits, and hospital stays. Through every setback, he refused to give up-facing each challenge with determination, faith, and a quiet resilience that inspired everyone around him. He truly fought until the very end, a testament to the incredible man he was.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Bailey Lyles, III; his mother, Margaret Claire Lyles; and his nephew, Sgt. Joshua Allen Ward.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 41 years, Debbie Lyles; daughters Toni (Bruce) Williams, Tori (Jacob) Lamar, and Teri (Michael) Grodi; grandchildren Jake, Bailey, Audrey, Hudson, Oaklyn, and Saylor; brother Allen Lyles; sister Patti Ward; and several nieces and nephews.

Buddy will be remembered for his kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for his family. Though he is gone, his presence will forever live in the hearts of those who knew him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Pingali for guiding Buddy through nine long and enduring years of treatment. Buddy regarded him with profound respect and admiration.