Stephen Lyons

YADKINVILLE — Adored husband, father, brother and grandfather, Stephen G. Lyons, passed away on June 2, 2014, after a long, brave battle against a terrible illness. He will be remembered always for the courage with which he faced his illness, the strength and love he continually provided to his family and friends and his generous, faithful spirit. He was the husband of Susan Lyons, his wife of 25 years; father to Skye Lyons and stepfather to Jenny Fulle, Josh and Jamie Luck; and brother to Linda Clauss, Sherrie Clark and Kathy Lyons. Stephen was the favorite uncle of his precious nieces and nephews; and grandfather to his beloved young grandson, Wylie. He was cherished by all and will be missed by his family and his many friends, wonderful neighbors and colleagues. Stephen loved life and enjoyed it to the fullest. He was loved, honored and respected by all who knew him. Born in Inyo-Kern, California, on Oct. 29, 1947, where his father was stationed as an Army pilot, he spent his youth in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and attended Northeastern University. His love of music and travel took him to northern California in the early '70s with his Gibson guitar strapped on his back. His love of all living, growing things brought him to George Lucas' ranch in Marin County, California, where he served for many years as grounds manager and installed his first vineyard there for Mr. Lucas. He went on to work with Ravenswood Winery in Sonoma many years later and in 1996 moved with his wife to North Carolina to investigate the emerging wine industry. He was responsible for the planting of numerous vineyards throughout the state and was an active viticulturist for many years. In 2009, he and Susan joined John Willingham, president of the Yadkin Arts Council, to help establish a cultural arts center in Yadkinville, where he remained as co-executive director until his illness claimed him. Stephen was pleased and proud to be a part of the creation and management of a thriving, growing community center for the arts and entertainment in the northern Piedmont. A celebration of his life will be held at the Yadkin Cultural Arts Center on Friday, June 13, at 5 pm. The address is 226 E. Main St., Yadkinville. www.yadkinarts.org. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Stephen G. Lyons Endowment Fund for the Yadkin Arts Council at P.O. Box 667, Yadkinville, NC 27055.