Rahshawn C. Lyles

August 16, 1979 – November 7, 2025
With deep love and heavy hearts, our family announces the passing of Rahshawn Cyad Lyles, who was born in Aurora, IL, on August 16, 1979, and departed this life on November 7, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois, at the University of Chicago Hospital.
Rahshawn was the beloved son of the late Kim Smith-Anderson and Michael Lyles, and the cherished grandson of the late Alonzo C. Smith, Mary Bell Hill (late) and Yolanda Lyles (late).
Rahshawn grew up with an endearing and unforgettable smile, a love for laughter, and a spirit that stood tall and strong just the way he carried himself through life. Whether he was cracking a joke, lighting up a room, or simply showing up for those he loved, Rahshawn's energy was magnetic, fun-loving, and kind. His humor, warmth, and easy-going nature left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his father, Michael Lyles; his sister, Nichole Stewart-Allen (Robert); and his brother, Taj Clinton Smith.
Also, left to cherish his memories are his children Aviel Lyles (Sara), Mekai Lyles (Britney), Mya Lyles (Raven), Braxton Lyles, and Harper Lyles, and a joyful grandfather to Silas Lyles.
He was also a deeply loved uncle to Jordan Allen, Jacob Smith, Ashton Allen, and Taj Smith Jr., who all adored him.
Rahshawn was also blessed with friends who were like brothers, including Jason Passley and Antoine Robinson, whose bonds with him carried through every season of his life. He also shared decades-long brotherhood with godbrothers Diontae Oglesby, Jaffel Hines, Tawaun Ingram, and Jamil Ingram.
In addition, Rahshawn is remembered by a large and loving extended family, including his aunts, uncles, and many cousins from the Lyles family, some residing in Aurora and others in California who cherish his memory and mourn his passing deeply, as well as many family members from the Smith and Stewart families, residing in Elgin and Aurora, respectively. Each of them holds cherished memories of him and mourns his passing deeply.
He graduated from Aurora Christian School in 1998, where he played basketball and often appeared in local newspapers for his standout three-point shooting, leadership, and athleticism. He later attended Kendall College on a basketball scholarship, studying culinary arts, where he refined an already natural gift for cooking. His talent in the kitchen was effortless, intuitive, and always rooted in love.
Professionally, he worked as a Quality Control Manager, most recently with OSI Group and previously with Optimum Nutrition, where he was respected for his dedication, strong work ethic, and leadership.
Outside of work, Rahshawn loved to travel, always ready for a plane ticket, an adventure, and a new place to explore. He embraced life with an open mind and an adventurous spirit, always willing to try something new, whether it was an adventure, a challenge, or even a bit of harmless mischief. His loyalty, openness, and easygoing nature made every moment with him unforgettable
A devoted and loving father, Rahshawn lit up whenever he talked about his children. He celebrated every milestone they reached and was happiest when surrounded by his children, close friends, and family. Rahshawn's laughter, his warmth, and his loving spirit will forever live in the memories of his children, his family, and all who were blessed to know him. His presence was one of joy, resilience, and light, and his memory will continue to stand tall in our hearts.
As a commitment of his faith, he handed his life to God, embracing a life guided by love and the comfort of a greater power. During life's usual trials and tribulations, Rahshawn exuded a calm strength and unwavering resilience, and the natural ability to uplift and comfort others with his humor, warmth, and understanding. He was always comforted knowing the presence of God.
As a commitment of his faith, Rahshawn handed his life to God, embracing a life guided by love and the comfort of a higher power. Through life's trials and challenges, he exuded calm strength and unwavering resilience, naturally uplifting and comforting those around him with his humor, warmth, and understanding, always reassured and guided by the presence of God.
He was preceded in death by his mother Kim Smith-Anderson, grandfather Alonzo C. Smith, both grandmothers Mary B. Hill and Yolanda Lyles, and his uncle Todd Clinton Smith.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Healy Chapel, 332 W. Downer Place, Aurora, IL. Following the visitation all are invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Rashawn which will take place at the Influence Event Suite, 285 Montgomery Rd., Aurora, IL 60505.