Thomas “Tom” Lyon

Thomas “Tom” Lyon departed this life on August 30, 2026. He was born on October 3, 1946, in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot, flying A-1 Skyraiders, T-38, A-7, and A-10 Warthogs. During his distinguished military career, he served in two wars, including Vietnam, and commanded all A-10 forces during Desert Storm. He received numerous medals for his service and retired from the Air Force as a Colonel. Following his military retirement, Tom continued serving his country as a defense contractor.

Tom was the oldest of five brothers: Bill, John, Gary, and Jerry. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Grace Lyon.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Elizabeth Lyon; his son, Christopher; his daughter, Carey; and his four grandchildren, Alex, Zach, Savannah, and Cooper.

Tom was a devoted member of Crooks United Methodist Church and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Yorktown, Virginia, where his faith and commitment to serving others were an important part of his life. He volunteered his time at the church, the Food Bank, the PORT homeless shelter program, and the Office of Elections on election days.

Outside of his service to his country and community, Tom enjoyed golfing and deep-sea fishing. He was also a proud left-hander and passed that trait along to his son, Chris who passed it to his son Alex.

Tom will be missed by his family, friends, fellow service members, and all those whose lives he touched. His legacy of service, faith, and willingness to help others will live on in those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00am on October 17, 2026, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Yorktown, Virginia.

Tom’s ashes will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.