David Paul Lyons, Sr, 80, of Laurel, MS passed away on December 23, 2023, at South Central Regional Medical Center

David was born in Laurel, MS on July 15, 1943, to Cuvier and Earline Lyons.  He served on the Laurel Police Force for 26 years and was Chief of Police for 12 of those years.  In 1992, David was elected Jones County Justice Court Judge, District 3.  He served the people of Jones County for 31 years until he recently retired due to his health condition.

David loved his family and the people of Jones County.  He had a servant's heart and was always willing to help in any way he could.  He loved his wife, Kay, and took pride in providing for his family.  David was a loving and supportive father who made sure everyone was taken care of, this was his top priority.  For the past 20 years, the title he was most proud of was "Papaw".  Chloe and Carson were his pride and joy. He never missed a moment of their lives and if you talked to him for more than 1 minute, he would tell you all about them.  He was so proud of them and played a huge part in their lives.

David was an avid sports fan and supported all local high schools, but he was a Northeast Jones Tiger fan through and through.  For years he followed NEJ sports teams near and far to show his support.  He attended sporting events as a daddy, papaw and fan.  David also served as a board member, active coach and board president for the Wooten Legion Baseball Organization for many years and continued to support them when his coaching time was done.  His love for baseball was shared with many local young men through this organization.  He was often referred to as "Coach".

David is preceded in death by his father, Cuvier Lyons, mother, Earline Tolbert Lyons, brothers, Leonard Busby, CE Lyons, Craven "Tiger" Lyons, Norabell Odom, Jackie Novac, Frank Lyons, Tody Lyons and Tommy Lyons.

David is survived by his wife, Wanda Kay Lyons, his sons, David Paul Lyons, Jr., Michael Lyons (Tiffani), brother, George Lyons and grandchildren Chloe and Carson Lyons.

Pallbearers: Carson Lyons, Bryan Walters, Bill Hughes,Jr, Sonny Saul, Bruce Russell, Lake Sharplin and Scott Dodd.  Honorary Pallbearers are Frank McKenzie, Paul Little, and Chris Lyons.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, from 5:00-8:00 pm at Journey Church, 130 Northeast Drive, Laurel, MS 39443.  Funeral services will take place at Journey Church on Thursday, December 28, 2023 at 1:00 pm.  Burial will follow at Myrick Cemetery.  Bro. Robby Johnson will officiate.  Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Laurel is in charge of arrangements. 601-649-3342.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make donations to Shiners Children's, Love to the rescue. Donate at: https://lovetotherescue.org/

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapellaurel.com