Funeral service honoring the life and legacy of Christopher Dale Lyell, age 61, of Fayetteville, TN, will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Bobby Bates, and Bro. Ronnie Thomas officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Flintville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the time of service on Thursday at Higgins Funeral Home.
Chris was born on October 6, 1963, in Dickson, TN, to the late Oscar Herman Lyell and Patricia Gail Gray Lyell. From a young age, he held a deep sense of duty and patriotism, which led him to proudly serve in the United States Army. As a Sergeant, he dedicated his career to the 7th Infantry Division, 8th Infantry Division, and 18th Airborne Corps. His service included deployment during Operation Desert Storm, where he demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment to his country. Chris carried his military values of honor, discipline, and loyalty throughout his life, and he remained deeply proud of his time in uniform. After his military service, Chris transitioned into civilian life, working as a truck driver. He found joy in simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, playing golf, watching classic westerns, and coaching his son in baseball, where he inspired many young athletes with his leadership and dedication. A man of faith, he was also a member of Heritage Baptist Church. Chris passed away on March 4, 2025, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Nashville, TN.
Chris is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Melanie Ann Thomas Lyell; his son, Jacob Thomas Lyell (Alexi Gochee); his siblings, Greg (Betty) Lyell, and Tera (Bobby) Dunman; his in-laws, Jerry Lancaster, Ronnie (Donna) Thomas and Michelle (Tony) Howard; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, Chris was preceded in death by his daughter, Britney Hope Lyell; his mother-in-law, Felicia Dickey; his sisters, Sandy Lancaster and Tammy Hanshaw; and his brother, Wayne Lyell.
Christopher Dale Lyell will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend, but above all, as a proud American soldier who selflessly served his country with honor and integrity.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Christopher Dale Lyell.
