Dr. Judith E. Lyles

December 13, 1941 - January 19, 2021

Dr. Judith (Judy) E. Lyles, age 79, formerly of Mattoon, Charleston, and Champaign IL, left her earthly home into the arms of Our Heavenly Father surrounded by her loving family at 10:00 pm, Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at her residence in Champaign, IL. A memorial service in her honor will take place at 12:00 PM, Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938; Reverend TJ Jackson will officiate. A committal service will immediately follow at Dodge Grove Cemetery in Mattoon, IL. The visitation will be from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the funeral home. Judy was born December 13, 1941 in Mattoon, IL, to the late James Roy and Roberta Ruth (Hopgood) Williams. She married James Walter Lyles Sr. on November 29, 1959 in Mattoon, IL; he preceded her in death on December 18, 2003. She is survived by three children; Tina Lyles Cowan of Smyrna, GA, James W. Lyles Jr. (Deneen DeMarie) of Urbana, IL, Sirena Williams of Charlotte, NC; four grandchildren Rashida, Jessica (Quincey), Anthony and Keyana; five great-grandchildren; Iyana, Liam, Leena, Lee and Layla; one brother, James D. Williams and wife Sandra of Mattoon, IL. Judy was very proud of her three children, four grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Her husband of thirty-eight years and her parents, preceded her in death in 2003, are now reunited in Christ. Although this was a difficult period in her life, she continued to fulfill her God-given mission of telling others about the love of Jesus and to give God all the glory. At age nine, Judy accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She diligently and continuously sought to please God. She walked by faith that God knows what’s best and let Him do the impossible. She was committed to personal bible study and obeying the Word of God! Most importantly, she shared her faith and the power of God with others as a witness of His Love. As a faithful member of Second Baptist Church of Wheaton, IL and Second Missionary Baptist Church of Mattoon, IL, Judy served on many committees, she faithfully served: Sunday School Teacher, Building Fund, Church Clerk, and Secretary. Judy’s professional educational background includes 30 years in Higher Education. Receiving a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Eastern Illinois University, and a Doctorate in Education from the University of Illinois in Vocational Technical Education, since 1988. Dr. Lyles was most proud of working with Dr. Fredrick Banks obtaining a grant for Higher Education Cooperation for Minority Teacher Identification and Enrichment Program. She strived to encourage others to always seek an education and do the same for others. Dr. Lyles also privately counseled others while working at EIU. During her leisure, she was a worldwide traveler, co-chair of the SBC book club, enjoyed hosting formal teas at her home and spending time with her grand and great grandchildren. She loved to listen to some Nat King Cole! Each of us will personally cherish all the memories she created, the loving care she provided, and her radiant smile emitting the love of God forever engraved in our hearts. She leaves behind her most cherished scriptures from the bible, Philippians 4:7 “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” For those who are unable to attend the services, a live tribute of her life will be available at www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome . Please visit www.mitchell-jerdan.com or www.facebook.com/mitchelljerdanfuneralhome to light a candle in her honor or share a memory with the family.