James Matthew Lyles (Jimmy) was born July 12, 1950 in Henderson, TN, the son of the late George and Cordelia Ross Lyles.
He was united in marriage on March 12, 1971 to Vickie Smith.
He attended Chester County High School. He was a faithful longtime member of Eastview Baptist Church. He loved his community and served the city of Eastview for several years as a Volunteer Fireman, Alderman, Ruritan Club member and was a dedicated coffee drinker at “The Liar’s Table” at Risner’s every morning for many years. In recent years, Jimmy enjoyed his mornings at Ramer Quick Stop.
Throughout the years he worked for McNairy County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff and several years later as the Jail Administrator. He also worked for Caterpillar and East West Motor Freight for many years.
He enjoyed spending time outdoors, working in the yard, traveling, watching Gunsmoke and other westerns, watching his favorite football team the Tennessee Vols and most of all spending time with family. His pride and joy were his five granddaughters; Madelyn, Abbie, Meredith, Shiloh and Avery. He was known as Papaw Jimbo (or sometimes Papaw Jimboat). He and Gran Gran were rarely absent from ball games, birthday parties or anything else the grandkids were involved in. He never missed a chance to brag on his kids or grandkids.
He went to be in his heavenly home on August 16, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Vickie Smith Lyles of Eastview, TN; son, Jeremy Lyles (Marsha) of Hornsby; daughter, Jodi Tyler (Reagan) of Eastview; grandchildren: Madelyn Whitfield, Abbie Lyles, Meredith Whitfield, Shiloh Tyler and Avery Tyler; as well as many extended family members and lifelong friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Tim Lyles and Danny Lyles.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or The Ronald McDonald House of Memphis.
