John R. Lyons Sr.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York to Joseph Lyons Sr and Veronica Mitchell Lyons. John lived a life defined by service, integrity, humility, and unwavering devotion to his family. He carried himself with quiet strength and earned the respect of all who knew him.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War before joining the New York City Police Department. Over the course of his distinguished career, he rose through the ranks of housing patrolman to become a decorated Captain and Borough Commander overseeing both Staten Island and Brooklyn. A graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy, John was recognized not only for his leadership and professionalism, but for the fairness, discipline, and humanity he brought to every role he held.

Though accomplished professionally, John’s greatest source of pride was always his family.

In 1968, he married the love of his life, Lorraine Kelly, who became Lorraine Lyons. As a husband, father, and grandfather, John led not through words alone, but through example. He taught his four sons John Jr, Michael, Kevin & Daniel the importance of humility, character and accountability. Through them, his legacy continued to grow with the blessing of nine grandchildren, Rachel, Elisabeth, Cameron, Keira, Jack, Hannah, Thomas, Kaley & Kevin Jr who he loved deeply.

John was known by family and friends as a man of remarkable intelligence and curiosity. He loved discussing current events and seemed to possess an endless knowledge of history, politics, and life itself. Conversations with him often became lessons—not because he demanded attention, but because people naturally wanted to learn from him. He had a gift for teaching life’s lessons with calm wisdom, perspective, and honesty.

Outside of work and family, John enjoyed golf, traveling the world, skiing, carpentry, and time spent with friends. Whether building something with his hands, following the news, or spending time with those he loved, he approached life with appreciation and humility. Despite all he accomplished, he often referred to himself as “the luckiest person on Earth,” a reflection of both his modest nature and the gratitude he carried throughout his life.

Those who knew John will remember a truly good man: smart but humble, accomplished yet approachable, disciplined but compassionate. He believed deeply in fairness, responsibility, and family above all else. His example shaped not only his children and grandchildren, but countless others who were fortunate enough to know him.

John’s legacy will live on in the values he passed down, the family he cherished, and the countless lives made better through his guidance, kindness, and love.

Visitation will be held at Casey-McCallum Rice Funeral Home, 30 Nelson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10308, US, on May 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and again from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Clare Roman Catholic Church, St. Clare's Church, Staten Island, NY 10308, US, on May 26, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Committal Service will be held at Ocean View The Cemetery Beautiful, 3315 Amboy Rd, Staten Island, NY 10306, US, on May 26, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.