James Lyons

1935 - 2020

Lyons, James
James Lyons, age 84, formerly of Ansonia peacefully entered into rest on May 9, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of 59 years to the late Janice Lyons, the first girl he ever dated. She was everything to him, his "Joy of Life", an inspiration every day and his reason for being loving, kind, and always the optimist. Jim was born in Ansonia on November 20, 1935 the son of the late James and Margaret (Carey) Lyons. He proudly served his country in the United States Army earning the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Jim earned a Degree in Law from UCONN and dedicated his entire career practicing law in Ansonia. Jim and Janice raised their family in Oxford - a town they both loved so much. He was very active in town politics, and recently noted that a highlight of his political career was helping to elect Mary Ann Drayton-Rogers as First Selectman. He was the attorney for Oxford's Planning and Zoning Committee for many years and he took pride watching Oxford develop into the "big little town" it has become. His love of life showed up in his adventurous side which most recently proved itself when he went skydiving with his grandchildren at age 82. He also became an avid hockey fan and was always present for his grandson Joseph's hockey games for Sheehan High School. He was an avid reader, loved classical music, and was happiest spending time with his family. For those who knew Jim, it was his optimism, kindness and faith in a better tomorrow that we remember. As a family member or friend, you would always leave a conversation with Jim feeling a little bit better. Jim is survived by his children Christopher Lyons of Wallingford, CT, Peter Lyons (Stephanie) of Brewster, NY, and Cara Richo (Mark) of Wallingford, and his grandchildren Joshua, Justin, Emily, Carey, Maggie, Robert, and Joseph. Funeral services will be private and have been entrusted to the Jenkins-King and Malerba Funeral Home, 12 Franklin St., Ansonia. Instead of saying goodbye to friends and family, Jim would always end a conversation with the words "Be good". In that spirit and in lieu of contributions, please consider a random act of kindness in honor of Jim.