William T. Lytton

With grace, strength, and a life marked by deep devotion, William Theodore Lytton departed this life on June 17, 2025. Born in Nashville, Tennessee, to Helen E. Turner-Johnson, William was lovingly raised by his grandparents, the late Jeff Lytton and Lorene Henderson-Spence-Lytton. From them, he inherited a foundation of faith, discipline, and unwavering love.

William proudly served in the United States Army, enlisting on June 20, 1955, and retiring on December 31, 1976, as a Vietnam-era Veteran with over two decades of honorable service. His years in uniform shaped his enduring commitment to leadership, justice, and country.

Following his military career, he continued his dedication to service through his work at The Tennessean, beginning as a newspaper carrier and later serving as a photographer. Whether capturing moments in print or mentoring young minds in his community, William’s impact was always sincere and lasting.

He was united in holy matrimony to his life partner, best friend, and anchor of more than 51 years, Irene Lockett, on October 7, 1973, and together they built a home filled with love, warmth, and wisdom – a safe-haven for many in their family. He was a proud Veteran, devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a cherished brother, beloved uncle, and loyal friend.

William’s love for family was only matched by his love for the community. He gave his time generously—volunteering with the Cub Scouts, supporting youth sports, and standing firmly as a community activist. In every role, he exemplified compassion, accountability, and strength.

His personal joys included fishing, traveling, and cherishing time with family. He was a man who loved hard, taught harder, and gave completely of himself. Sweet in spirit, firm in principle, and humble in action—to know W.T. was truly to love him.

W.T. was welcomed into eternal peace by those who journeyed before him –

his mother, Helen E. Turner-Johnson; his grandparents, Jeff Lytton and Lorene Henderson-Spence-Lytton; his brother, George Turner, and dear niece, Cynthia D. Johnson, who kept his maternal family connected and informed until her passing in April 2025. Now, they are all together again – resting side by side in perfect peace, surrounded by everlasting light and love.

He leaves to honor his life and legacy: his beloved wife, Irene Lytton; children William J. Lytton, Melvis D. Lockett (stepson), and Michael Lockett (grandson/son); siblings Delores Fitzpatrick (Murfreesboro, TN), Edna Bolden, Cynthia A. Johnson, Shirley Wooten, Gloria Kinney, and John C. Johnson Jr. (all of Dayton, OH); his favorite niece from his lovingly blended family, Brenda Hamer Madden, who held a treasured place in his heart; his brother-in-love, Dennis Bond, a great friend and loyal riding buddy; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends—including his lifelong friend James Albiston.