Marian aka Lyles

Marion Lucinda Holt Dalton Lyles was the youngest of ten children born to the late John Wesly and Nettie Holt on August 17th, 1926, in Cleveland, Ohio. Her sisters and brothers preceded her in death. Marion was a product of the Cleveland Public School system. She attended Giddings Elementary School, Central Jr. High, and graduated from John Hay High School. Upon graduation she was employed by the government. She attended West Virginia State College and received her B.S. Degree in Business Administration. During her school experience she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (Nu Chapter) in 1948. In 1971 she obtained her Masters Degree in Educational Administration from John Carroll University.

In 1951 Marion married Harold Dalton, and to this union she had one daughter, Deborah Elaine Dalton. In 1968 she married Herbert H. Lyles. Both have preceded her in death.

During her teaching career with the Cleveland School Board, Marion was involved in many aspects of education. She was a Reading and Math Consultant, Assistant Principal, and Principal of Cranwood Elementary School where she retired in 1987. Some of her accolades included receiving the Martha Holdens Scholar Award in 1965 for outstanding teaching, and she received the J.W. Wills Jr. Award for outstanding leadership.

She enjoyed traveling with her daughter and friends and participating in Alpha Kappa Alpha activities.

She was involved in the community, where she served as President of the Junior Women's Civic League, and volunteered at Crile Hospital, Parmadale Receiving Home, and the Society For The Blind. She also taught dancing at Karamu.

She joined Lane Metropolitan C.M.E. Church at an early age. She was a member of the Junior Usher Board, taught Sunday School, and belonged to the Educational Department for community groups. Later she joined Aldersgate United Methodist Church where she participated on several boards. She remained a faithful member until her mobility challenges did not allow her to attend church in person.

In early 2025 she became a Diamond Soror celebrating 75 years of active service, and her last activity was to join her sorors at the retired AKA's Christmas party.

Marion departed this life peacefully, early on August 9th, 2025. She leaves to mourn her passing her daughter, Deborah Elaine Dalton, cousins Jean Veal, Sharon, Donald and Ronald Holt. Nieces, Saundra Walker, Cecilia Cooper, and Darlene Holt. Nephews, Lawrence Holt (Juanita), Gregory Holt (Narazarene), and many other loving relatives.