David Harrison Lyons, Sr., 57, of Demopolis, Alabama, and formerly of Decatur, Alabama, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2026, at DCH Regional Medical Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.Born in Decatur, Alabama, on January 14, 1969, David was the son of Barbara Branum Lyons and the late John Thomas Lyons. He grew up in Decatur, where he attended West Decatur Elementary and Saint Ann’s Catholic School before graduating from Austin High School in 1987. From an early age, David’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He deeply loved Camp Sumatanga, where he spent his childhood summers and where, during his junior high school years, he beautifully gave his life to the Lord. David later went on to attend the University of Alabama, earning his bachelor’s degree in marketing.
Early in his career, David lived in Selma, Alabama, where he was deeply involved in his community. He served as the Tech Prep Director at Wallace Community College, passionately guiding high school students to discover their strengths and choose career paths based on their interests. He was a dedicated member of the Selma Kiwanis Club and a faithful member of Church Street United Methodist Church, where he loved working with the church youth program.
Throughout his distinguished career in economic development, David served as Director for several chambers of commerce, including the Columbus Chamber of Commerce in Columbus, Georgia. His expertise and leadership allowed him to work closely with the governors of both Alabama and Georgia on numerous vital projects. While spearheading economic development work for West Point, Georgia, David was instrumental in bringing Korean Kia automotive suppliers to the region. His professional relationships often blossomed into deep, lifelong friendships; many of the visiting suppliers spent meaningful downtime with David and his family, cooking meals together and learning about each other’s cultures.
David’s life was deeply rooted in his Christian faith and his desire to work for the Lord. He was a dedicated, 15-year member of Church of the Highlands, where he was instrumental in helping the church grow. At one time, David and his family lived and worked at the Henderson Settlement in Kentucky. There, they focused on Christ-centered service, positively impacting the local community through work camps and Volunteers in Mission. David poured his heart into numerous ministries at the settlement—building homes for local families, ministering to youth, managing a flower nursery and cattle, and creating unique opportunities to generate income for the community. He also found great joy in working with the Walk to Emmaus movement, where he loved leading people to Christ.
Once their children grew older and left for college, David and Heather decided to return to Alabama, settling in Demopolis. For several years, David brought his talents to the local Chamber of Commerce, where he championed new businesses, supported existing ones, wrote grants, and managed fundraising efforts. He especially loved working on community festivities, most notably Demopolis’s cherished “Christmas on the River” celebration.
An avid and passionate sports fan, David fiercely loved the University of Alabama. For the last three years, he took great pride in working directly at the Alabama games in Guest Relations. He also loved playing golf, fishing, taking trips to the beach, and relaxing at the family cabin. Above all else, David’s greatest joy in life was spending precious time with his family.
A devoted family man, David leaves behind a rich legacy of love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Heather Tanner Lyons; his daughter, Tanner Lindsey Lyons; and his son, David Harrison Lyons, Jr. He is also survived by his mother, Barbara Branum Lyons; two brothers, Timothy Randall Lyons (Fran) of Mobile, and John Michael Lyons (Deanna) of Decatur; his father-in-law, Michael Jean Tanner; two brothers-in-law, Lee Tanner (Catherine) of Greenville, Alabama, and Brandon Tanner of Selma, Alabama; and nine nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, John Thomas Lyons, and his mother-in-law, Gloria Lindsey Tanner.
A traditional funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Roselawn Funeral Home in Decatur, Alabama. Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM with Pastor David Grizzard officiating.
David was a passionate advocate for organ donation and was peacefully able to give the final, precious gift of life to so many in need. If you would like to make a memorial donation to celebrate his legacy of giving, contributions can be made to either:
• Legacy of Hope
516 20th Street South
Birmingham, AL 35233
• Church of the Highlands (Demopolis Campus)
1455 W Jackson St
Demopolis, AL 36732
