Wilma J. Lyons

Wilma J. Lyons, 96, of Parsons, peacefully departed this life the evening of Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Parsons Presbyterian Manor.

Wilma Jeanne McKnight was born on January 28, 1928, to Thomas Woodson and Hattie Arlena (McCloud) McKnight in Parsons, Kansas.  She grew up and attended school in Parsons, graduating from Parsons High School.

Wilma wore many hats and worked at various jobs throughout her life.  Wilma was employed at Katy Clinic in Parsons for several years as a housekeeper.  She went on to spend much of her later working years at the Kansas Army Ammunition Plant.   Post-retirement, she was a bus monitor for USD 503, touching many children's lives, especially those of disabled children.

Wilma's joy was found in family, with her grandchildren being the center of her world.  Her passion to solve crossword puzzles and the joy of cooking were evident in her home, where anyone fortunate enough to visit for the holidays was treated to her collard greens and homemade sweet potato pie.  Her home was a haven for comfort and love.  Wilma enjoyed casino outings with her beloved sister, Jacqueline Payne and Pinochle games with friends.  She was a lifelong member of Hamilton Chapel United Methodist Church in Parsons.  As we bid farewell to Wilma, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, laughter, and the legacy that she leaves behind.  May her memory continue to live on in the hearts of those who were touched by her grace and love.

Wilma and Edward Lyons, Sr. were united in marriage.  He preceded her in death on October 3, 1984.

Survivors include:

Two sons – Eddie Lyons, Jr. of Parsons, Kansas

Mike Lyons of Tulsa, Oklahoma

Seven grandchildren – Edward Lyons III, Erik D. Lyons, Erving M. Lyons, Chauncey E. Lyons, Lynzi L. Lyons, Joshua M. Lyons, and Melanie Sibley

Several great-grandchildren

One sister – Mary Jo Russ of Bakersfield, California

Numerous nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed Lyons, Sr.; one son, Donald Charles Lyons; four brothers, Marvin McKnight, Thomas McKnight, Paul McKnight and James McKnight; and four sisters, Glorene Bell, Marian Young, Bernice Booker, and Jacqueline Payne.

Private family services are in the care of the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home of Parsons.

Memorials are suggested to Hamilton Chapel UMC.  These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.