Dorothy Lyons

As family and friends can certainly attest, Dorothy Lyons led a life rich in faith, family, and friends, living each day to the very fullest. She was a steadfast source of strength in all circumstances, and she faced the challenges that came her way with a grace and determination that came from her trust in the Lord. There was nothing that made Dorothy happier than spending her time in the company of her loved ones. Her generosity knew no limits, exemplified by the way she went above and beyond to give to others, and her legacy is one of compassion and selfless service. Deeply loved, Dorothy will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Dorothy’s journey began in her birth town of Brookhaven, Mississippi. She was welcomed by her parents, Leroy and Maybelle Lyons. Dorothy was one of seven children in the Lyons household and was raised in the bustling family home alongside her siblings, Mattie, Bertha, Ernestine, Edgar, Charles, and James. Some of Dorothy’s earliest years were spent in Idlewild (Woodland Park), then the Baldwin area in Michigan. The family eventually settled down in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

As a girl, Dorothy attended East Park Elementary School in Muskegon Heights, then continued her education at Woodland Park Elementary. She graduated from Baldwin School, eager to see what the future held. Soon after making her home in Grand Rapids, Dorothy stepped into her career with General Motors. She worked mainly at the GM diesel factory in Coopersville and their factory on Burton and Burlingame in Grand Rapids. Dorothy dedicated many years to General Motors, she has built many lasting friendships over the years. Dorothy’s sister, Ernestine, worked in engineering for General Motors as well.

While building her career, Dorothy became a mother to her two beloved sons, Darnell and Omar. Her boys immediately became the focus of her life, and there was nothing she would not do for them. Dorothy worked tirelessly to raise her sons and provide for them. As a mom, she was caring and supportive of Omar and Darnnell. Dorothy balanced her work for GM with her role as a mother, and she found a way to thrive.

Later in life, Dorothy was overjoyed to become a grandmother to Courtney, Darnell Jr., Dajalon, and Omaya. She adored her grandkids and even became a great-grandmother as well. Dorothy loved keeping in touch with her family members through thoughtful phone calls or letters. She considered herself so blessed to watch her family grow and flourish.

When she wasn’t working, Dorothy often spent her free time at the casino. She was usually very lucky and even won the jackpot a few times! Always generous and thinking of others, Dorothy would frequently give her lottery winnings away. She loved cooking, and she was famous for her delicious lemon cake. Dorothy was an avid fan of her soap operas, including Tyler Perry, General Hospital, The Bold and The Beautiful.

When reflecting on the overflowing life of Dorothy Lyons, it is easy to see both her unshakeable work ethic and her fierce, unconditional love for her family and friends. Her faith was deeply rooted, influencing all areas of her life, and she was a powerful role model of kindness and integrity for those who looked up to her. A devoted mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Dorothy’s family was undoubtedly her greatest treasure. Her top priority was caring for her loved ones, and she did so with her whole heart. Although life will never be the same without Dorothy here, she leaves behind a precious collection of memories that will be forever cherished.

Dorothy L. Lyons, of Kentwood MI, gained her wings on Sunday June 21, 2026 with her family by her side. Dorothy was preceded in death by her sons Darnell and Omar Lyons, her parents Leroy and Maybelle Lyons, her sisters, Mattie (Earl) Whitney, Bertha (Albert) Smith, Ernestine Lyons, brother Edgar Lyons, niece Natalie Lyons, nephews Dwayne Smith, Bill Whitney, and Corey Lyons.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her brothers: Charles (Beverly) Lyons and James (Mary) Lyons, her niece Michelle (Michael) Gordon. Her grandchildren Courtney, Darnell Jr., Dajalon, and Omaya Lyons. Also surviving are her great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives, friends, and especially those friends of her from General Motors.

A service to remember and reflect on Dorothy’s life will be held on Friday July 3, at 12 o'clock noon at Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield Ave NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Dorothy’s family will have a time of sharing of from 11 AM to the start of the service at the funeral home. A repast will be held following the service also at the funeral home. To sign Dorothy’s guest book, leave a memory or post a photo please visit www.heritagelifestory.com