John F. Lyons, Jr., of Andover, died Thursday, Aug. 11, 2011, at Lawrence General Hospital, with his children by his side.
Born March 26, 1931 in Lawrence, he was the eldest child of the late John F. and Loretta (Keefe) Lyons. He grew up in Lawrence, graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1948. He was a member of the second graduating class of Merrimack College in 1952. He served his country in the United States Air Force from 1952-1956.
Jack, as he was known, worked for Avco Corporation in Wilmington, until his retirement in 1986. He also worked for the Internal Revenue Service from 1987-1998.
He attended St. Augustine Church in Andover. Jack is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who was content enjoying the simple things in life: a good book, a classic movie or moving opera, the warmth of the summer sun, the sound of the ocean and the love and laughter of his family around him. He had an infectious laugh and made everyone feel special. Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was predeceased by his wife, Jean Ann (Boland) Lyons in 1999. He is survived by twin daughters, Christie Lyons of Andover and Laurie and her husband Shawn Jasper of Hudson, N.H.; a son, John F. Lyons, Ill (Jay) and his wife Caroline of Andover; grandchildren, Sarah Jean Jasper, Anne Elizabeth Lyons, Grace Catherine Lyons, and Kate Frances Lyons; a brother and his wife Robert and Patricia Lyons of North Andover; a sister, Joanne Pekarski of Methuen; and numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and cousins. He was also predeceased by a sister, Maureen (Lyons) Allen.
ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends attended a funeral Mass on Monday, August 15, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Augustine Church, 43 Essex St. Andover. Calling hours were held on Sunday, from 3 to 7 PM at Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 N. Main St. Andover. Burial was in St. Mary's Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Lawrence. Contributions may be made in John's name to: St. Augustine Parish, 43 Essex St., Andover, MA 01810. For more information go to www.burkemagliozzi.com.