Edward James Lyons

1945 - 2024

Edward James "Spider" Lyons, a lifelong resident of the Tripps Park section of West Scranton, passed away Tuesday, July 30, at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore after an illness. He was 79 years old. On May 21, 2017, he was preceded in death by his adored wife, Nancy (Knowles) Lyons. The couple had been married for 47 years.

Born on May 18, 1945 and son of the late Edward and Helen (McIntyre) Lyons, Spider was a graduate of West Scranton High School before attending Penn State University. Spider served six years in the United States Army Reserves and Army National Guard. He began his career at Honeywell International before serving over 27 years as an account executive with Siemens Global Building Technologies prior to his retirement.

Certainly a West Side legend, to know Spider was to love him. His humor, generosity and huge heart made him endearing to all. 

An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of the Elmhurst Country Club and a staple in the Monday night league at Pine Hills Country Club. He loved a good cigar, ice cold beer, cards and the "odds" on sporting events. Above all, he loved his daughters and grandchildren, never missing a holiday or milestone occasion ensuring a card and generous gift was properly post marked and mailed. He was a longtime member of St. Patrick's Church in West Scranton, an Eagle Scout and a car enthusiast who restored, collected and showed his antique cars, winning several awards for his beauties along the way. To forever be missed, Eddie, Ed, Spider, Spy, Nostradamus, Donkey will never be forgotten.

He is survived by his beloved family, including his two daughters, Colleen Rozier and husband, Jeremy Matney, of Wilmington, North Carolina; and Lisa Perez and husband, Matthew, of Lebanon, New Jersey; four grandchildren who loved their "Grampy Spy," Peyton Rozier and Casey, Carmen and Charlotte Perez; his sister, Ann Marie Gall and husband, John, of Clarks Summit; sister-in-law, Karen Lyons, of Hamlin; and nieces, nephews, relatives and countless dear friends. He was also preceded in death by his brother, M.J. Lyons; and niece, Karin Lyons-Brasted Foster.

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church, 1403 Jackson St. in Scranton, to be celebrated by the Rev. Richard Fox, pastor. Private burial will be in Cathedral Cemetery. Those attending services are asked to go directly to church.

Family and friends are welcome to celebrate Spider's life on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 125 N. Main Ave., Scranton. Please visit the funeral home's website for directions or to leave a condolence.