Francis Lyons died at his home in Plano, TX on Tuesday, September 12, 2017.

Born September 16, 1931 to John Lyons and Mary (Keegan) Lyons in Pittsburg, Kansas, Francis graduated from St Mary’s High School. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from University of Kansas in 1953. During his senior year he enlisted in the Army Reserves, and upon graduating he was put on active duty.

Upon completion of his military duty he met Joan Mander whom he wed February 4, 1956 in Pittsburg, Kansas where he worked for Spencer at the Jayhawk Works. A few months later they were transferred to Orange, Texas where they raised a family of six children. Francis enjoyed attending the various games, meets, and performances in which his children participated. He and his wife were active in the community and church. His hobby of repairing antique clocks eventually became a business opportunity. In 1978 they along with their friends the Smiths opened and operated Mema’s antique store for a few years.

For over 20 years Francis was the Safety Supervisor at the Orange plant and retired after 34 years of employment with Spencer-Gulf-Chevron. When he retired from Chevron he went into business selling and repairing clocks. After 10 successful and enjoyable years at The Grapevine he once again retired.

Francis is preceded in death by his wife Joan Mander Lyons, his sisters and brothers-in- law Rosemary and Charles Collar and Therese and Bill Yoakum.

Survivors include children Claudia and Jimmy Krause, Tim and Stacie Lyons, Anne Thorshov, John and Brenda Lyons, Patrick and Kim Lyons, and David and Ivonne Lyons; sister-in-law Cathy and Richard Heyerdahl, Francis had 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Francis’ life will be held at 11:00 A.M on September 19, 2017, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Hall in Orange, TX.

Memorial contributions are welcome at Alz.org and Southeast Texas Hospice, 912 West Cherry Avenue, Orange, TX 77630.

A special thanks goes to Naomi Nash, other caregivers, and Community Hospice for their care and support.