Nancy Agnes Lyons

January 10, 1938 - July 24, 2023

Nancy Agnes Lyons, a remarkable woman with a life full of experiences and passions, passed away on July 24, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee. Born on January 10, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of Robert Jerome and Agnes Mason, who were both talented commercial photographers. Nancy's journey through life took her from the bustling streets of Brooklyn to the serene landscapes of Bergen County, New Jersey, where she spent her formative years in Hillsdale.

In pursuit of her dreams and a career, Nancy ventured to Washington, DC, where she began her professional journey as a typist for the Central Intelligence Agency. Later, she made Memphis her home and embarked on a fulfilling career at St. Michael School, where she not only provided office support but also shared her passion for art by teaching the subject. Throughout her working life, Nancy's creativity and dedication shone brightly as she lent her editorial and production talents to a fundraising consulting firm.

Beyond her work, Nancy was a woman of many interests and talents. In her youth, she had a keen eye for photography, capturing cherished moments and preserving memories through her lens. France held a special place in her heart, and she was captivated by its rich culture and beauty. An avid swimmer and unbeatable badminton player, Nancy's love for physical activities knew no bounds. Her intellectual prowess was evident in her skill at solving crossword puzzles and dominating trivia games; she was the teammate everyone wanted.

However, it was in the world of art that inspired Nancy. From oil painting to delicate paper crafts, she explored a myriad of artistic expressions. Her profound appreciation for art history allowed her to delve into the depths of human creativity and admire the works of renowned masters.

Nancy's life was one of love and devotion, and her legacy lives on through her loving family. She leaves behind her sons James (and Dana), Chris (and Anita), Barry (and Mary), and Joel (and Padma), as well as her daughter Julie Dacus (and Herb). Her memory will forever be cherished by her grandchildren Jeremy, Tyler (and Sarah), Jonathan (and Kate), Savannah, Alexis, Nick, Courtney, and Brandon, and her great-grandchildren, Abel, Amelia, and Violet. Additionally, Nancy is survived by her older brother, Richard (Dick) Mason, and her younger sister, Natalie Gawdiak, who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

In honor of Nancy's generous and caring spirit, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to two organizations she held dear: Youth Villages (https://youthvillages.org/) and MIFA (https://www.mifa.org/donatenow).

Nancy Agnes Lyons will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her creativity and love will forever live on in the hearts of her loved ones and those whose lives she touched.

A visitation for Nancy will be held Monday, July 31, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Collierville Funeral Home, 3863 Bailey Station Rd, Collierville, TN 38017, followed by a memorial service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.