John J. Lyons Jr.

John Lyons, a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at the age of 88.
Born and raised in South Boston, John was the middle child of John Joseph Lyons Sr., of Irish descent, and Jean (Hureau) Lyons, of French-Canadian heritage. He grew up alongside his older sister, the late Marjorie Hayes of Milton, and his younger sister, Doris Steele of Dedham, sharing a vibrant childhood and forging lifelong friendships in the heart of Southie.
A graduate of South Boston High School, John played football and spent his summers as a lifeguard at L Street Beach. After high school, he worked at Harvard Medical School before proudly serving in the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, he discovered his passion for carpentry, building a successful career solely through word-of-mouth. His craftsmanship and integrity spoke for themselves.
In 1965, John married the love of his life, Susan. Together, they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, celebrating that milestone in April 2025. They raised three sons, John of Hanover, Chris of Plymouth, and Matthew of Waltham at their home in Norwell, a home that John built.
John was known for his infectious laugh, spirited storytelling, and constant stream of heartfelt compliments. His adventurous spirit took him on ski trips with friends and family, fishing excursions on his boat from Scituate Harbor to Race Point, and tuna hunts on Stellwagen Bank. At home, he found joy in tending his vegetable garden with the same care he gave to all aspects of his life. John also had a deep love for music and dancing, often enjoying a song or a dance at family gatherings. His laughter, energy, and love of life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Above all, John's greatest happiness came from time spent with family.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Lyons of Norwell; his sons and their families: John and his wife Linda of Hanover, Christopher of Plymouth, and Matthew and his wife Lisa of Waltham; and his 11 cherished grandchildren: Bailey, Jack, Abby, Shannon, Anna, Steven, Savannah, Jace, Ava, Brooke, and Giuliana. He is also survived by his sister Doris Steele of Dedham, along with many special nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Marjorie Hayes of Milton.
John's legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the home he built, and the stories shared around family tables.
Visiting hours in the Sullivan Funeral Home, 551 Washington Street, Rte 53 on Tuesday, June 3rd from 4-7 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 4th at 9AM at Our Lady of the Angels Parish (St. Mary's Church) 392 Hanover Street, Rte 139 in Hanover. Burial will follow at Stetson Meadows Cemetery in Norwell.