Kenneth R. Lyons, known lovingly to family and friends as Kenny, passed away on October 4, 2026, in Bradenton, Florida. He was 66 years old.
Born on February 15, 1960, in Missouri, Kenny lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, and a steady devotion to the people around him. He graduated from Palmetto High School and carried forward the practical skills and determination that would shape both his career and his reputation. Those who knew him would remember a man who was adventurous, generous, and intelligent, with a calm confidence and a willingness to learn anything that would help him serve others better.
Kenny built a broad and accomplished work life. He worked for Port Shipping as a welder and underwater welder, a demanding field that reflected both his technical ability and his fearless approach to challenging work. He later spent many years as a salesman for Mitchell’s Manual, where he sold manuals, computers, and software and developed a strong understanding of the changing world of technology and business. He also worked for Roy’s Automotive, continuing a lifelong connection to mechanical work and repair. In 2005, he established Kenny’s Auto Repair Service in Bradenton, Florida, where he devoted himself to auto repairs and remained active in the trade for the rest of his life. His career stood as a testament to skill, persistence, and trust earned over time.
Beyond his work, Kenny was a man of many interests and deep personal joy. He enjoyed spending time with family at get-togethers, where his presence added warmth and energy to every gathering. He loved collecting many different things, a reflection of his curiosity and appreciation for the unique. He enjoyed fishing and boating, and he especially liked watching car, train, and plane shows. His passion for aviation was longstanding, and he enjoyed flying planes whenever he could. He also found satisfaction in carpentry work, using his hands to create, repair, and build. In every setting, he brought enthusiasm and a practical spirit that others found both reassuring and inspiring.
Faith was also an important part of Kenny’s life. He was Christian, and that faith helped shape the way he lived, worked, and related to others. He was known as a man who showed care through action, whether by helping someone solve a problem, sharing time with loved ones, or offering the kind of steady support that made a difference in everyday life.
Kenny is survived by his wife, Hau Lyons, and by his children, Jana Lyons Gouwens and Doug Gouwens of Sarasota, Florida, Kenneth Jr. and Samantha Lyons of Sarasota, Florida, Shelby C. M. and Jordan Lyons of Bradenton, Florida, Anh Lyons of Bradenton, Florida, and Han Lyons of Bradenton, Florida. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Mariana Lyons, Vada Lyons, Nova Lyons, Dax Lyons, and Jett Lyons. His family also includes his sisters, Sheila C. Jamerson of Grandview, Indiana, Alicia B. Knight of Panama City Beach, Florida, Kim Rawley of Mississippi, and Esther Sweat of Palmetto, as well as his brother, David Lyons of Bradenton. Many have passed such as his father Clarence T Lyons, his mother Eleanor Lyons, and his brother Thomas (Tommy) Lyons. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews who will carry forward memories of his humor, his presence, and his example.
Kenny’s life reflected the kind of story news headlines rarely capture in full, yet communities never forget. He was a man who worked with his hands, built his business, cherished his family, and pursued life with curiosity and courage. His legacy will remain in the vehicles he repaired, the skills he shared, the stories he told, and the people who loved him. As author Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Kenny Lyons has made many people feel valued, supported, and remembered. With his caring, he has made a difference and changed many people's lives."
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 4-7PM at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street, Bradenton, Florida, 34209. A funeral service will take place at 10AM on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street, Bradenton, Florida, 34209. Interment will follow the service at Palma Sola Cemetery, 8604 9th Ave NW, Bradenton, FL 34209.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street, Bradenton, Florida, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
