Jeffrey Lyons was born in Boone, North Carolina, to Archie and Joann Lyons on September 17, 1961. He was the second of five brothers and sisters. Growing up, Jeff was an avid outdoorsman, adventurist, and wrestler which led him to join the U.S. Army as an airborne infantryman in 1985. Jeff served in the U.S. Army from 1985 until 1994. Jeff would later serve in the U.S. Air Force Reserve with the 560th RED HORSE Battalion from 2010 until his retirement in 2021. Jeff served his local community of Asheville as a firefighter for 26 years, from 1996 until his passing in 2022.

Jeff was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and brother, leaving behind his wife of 37 years, Janet Lyons; children, Mead Lyons (son) and Forest Lyons (daughter); grandchildren, Harper Lyons, Brooke Lyons, and Buchanan Lyons; brothers, Dean Lyons, Greg Lyons, Brent Lyons, and sister, Allyson Lyons. Jeff also left behind numerous extended family members and friends whom he loved dearly.

Jeff was always moving. At the fire house you could often find him on the treadmill, lifting weights, or having a deep conversation with “Paco.” Jeff built a home for his family on a mountain in Barnardsville, North Carolina, where he always had a couple of projects running simultaneously. Jeff was a man of integrity, hard work, and humility; he was always willing to lend a helping hand, check in on a friend, or offer a word of encouragement. Jeff was a leader and source of security for his subordinates, peers, and superiors alike.

Jeff’s honors and awards are too numerous to list completely but include The Army Commendation Medal, The Army Achievement Medal (5th Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), Expert Infantryman Badge, Parachutist Badge, The Air Force Achievement Medal, GWOT Expeditionary Medal, associate degrees in forestry and fire protection technology, and Open Water PADI certification.

Jeff isn’t remembered for his impressive resume and accolades. Jeff is remembered for the impact he had, and continues to have, on our lives. He is with us always. Stories of Jeff are shared regularly at home and in the fire station. The filter of “How would Jeff handle this?” lives on in the decision-making process for many of us. We are all forever grateful for the love he gave us, the role he continues to play in our lives, and the sacrifices he made for us.

We love you, Jeff. ’Til we meet again.