Earl "Charles" Lyles

Earl “Charles” Lyles was born to his parents, Eloise Garner and Nathan Lyles on August 20, 1934 in Garland City, Arkansas. He was the sixth child born to this union and was raised with his 4 sisters and 1 brother. In 1941, the family moved to a little community named Mandeville, where he would spend the remainder of his childhood. The family attended church in this community at Swan Lake Baptist Church.

He was educated through the Texarkana Arkansas School District where he later graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. One of his family’s fondest memories came from his sister-in-law, Catherine Lyles. She recalls as a young man, Earl earned the name “Chilli” because he was always laid back and never created waves. He relocated to Denver, Colorado where his nickname became Charlie Brown. Following high school, Earl enlisted in the United States Airforce. He committed his life to the safety and freedom of our country. He served 4 years before he was honorably discharged.

After his discharge, he was blessed with the birth of his children, Sharon Jackson, Charles Earl Lyles, Jr. and Robert Lyles. He was later blessed with the addition of his 8 grandchildren and 24 great great children.

In the early 1960’s, Earl met a lovely young lady named Pauline. In December of 1963, they were joined in holy matrimony.

By profession, Earl worked as a Sky Cap. He also worked as a Maintenance Tech for the Department of Transportation. He always performed his duties with a spirit of excellence.

A man of faith, Earl was a longtime member of Friendship Baptist Church, under the pastoral leadership of Pastor Paul Burleson.

In his free time, Earl enjoyed watching sports, listening to jazz music, entertaining friends and most importantly, spending time with family. His infectious smile and welcoming presence will truly be missed.

Earl passed away on February 9, 2023. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 60 years, Pauline Lyles; his children, Sharon (Charles) Jackson, Charles Earl Lyles, Jr., and Robert (Janis) Lyles; 8 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren; sister in laws and cousins, Donna and Elaine Knight; brother-in-law, Willie Robinson, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.