Bernie Lyon was a selfless and honorable law enforcement officer and a loving father and friend. He began his career at the Knox County Sheriff’s Office in 1979 as the first control room operator at the Knox County Jail. He spent the last seven and a half years as Chief Deputy. He graduated from South Doyle High School, attended Walters State Community College, and graduated from the Donaldson Police Academy and the FBI National Academy. Prior to Sheriff Tom Spangler appointing Bernie as Chief Deputy in 2018, he served as Assistant Chief Deputy over the Traffic Unit (TANGO). Family and friends remember Bernie as dedicated, playful, kind, and humble. Bernie truly loved everyone and, in turn, everyone loved Bernie. Countless stories have been shared about his life over the last two weeks, proving that the Lyon legacy of love and friendship remains strong in this community.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Parkwest Hospital’s ED and CCU, to our community for their prayers and acts of kindness, and to all of the area’s first responder community for assisting with services and for the support shown during this time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Gale and Ruth Lyon, his brother Chief Keith Lyon and nephew James Lyon. He’s survived by his son, Taylor (Allie) Lyon, and his brothers, Reverend Leland (Janet) Lyon and Doctor Tony Lyon. His nieces and nephews include Janice, John (Jessica), Lacy, Joy Lyon and many great nieces and nephews. His Ex- wife/ great friend Wendy Lyon, ex- father in law Bill Mays; like his daughters Hannah Jarmon and Gracie Thomas, Uncle B’s special babies Parker “P” and Kaiden; Loyal Pups Willow, Cyrus and Koda.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025 at Grace Baptist Church 7171 Oak Ridge Highway Knoxville, TN 37931 followed by a 7:00 p.m. funeral service, Rev. Lee Lyon officiating. Family and friends will meet 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Grace Baptist Church to leave in procession for a 1:00 p.m. graveside service at Trentville Cemetery with full police honors presented by the Knox County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard. Condolences may be expressed here.
