Funeral service honoring the life and legacy of Christopher Dale Lyell, age 61, of Fayetteville, TN, will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Bobby Bates, and Bro. Ronnie Thomas officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Flintville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the time of service on Thursday at Higgins Funeral Home.
Chris was born on October 6, 1963, in Dickson, TN, to the late Oscar Herman Lyell and Patricia Gail Gray Lyell. From a young age, he held a deep sense of duty and patriotism, which led him to proudly serve in the United States Army. As a Sergeant, he dedicated his career to the 7th Infantry Division, 8th Infantry Division, and 18th Airborne Corps. His service included deployment during Operation Desert Storm, where he demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment to his country. Chris carried his military values of honor, discipline, and loyalty throughout his life, and he remained deeply proud of his time in uniform. After his military service, Chris transitioned into civilian life, working as a truck driver. He found joy in simple pleasures—spending time with loved ones, playing golf, watching classic westerns, and coaching his son in baseball, where he inspired many young athletes with his leadership and dedication. A man of faith, he was also a member of Heritage Baptist Church. Chris passed away on March 4, 2025, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Nashville, TN.
Chris is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Melanie Ann Thomas Lyell; his son, Jacob Thomas Lyell (Alexi Gochee); his siblings, Greg (Betty) Lyell, and Tera (Bobby) Dunman; father-in-law, Ronald (Pam) Thomas; his in-laws, Jerry Lancaster, Ronnie (Donna) Thomas, Michelle (Tony) Howard, Troy (Wendi) Thomas, Travis (Jordan) Thomas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, Chris was preceded in death by his daughter, Britney Hope Lyell; his mother-in-law, Felicia Dickey; his sisters, Sandy Lancaster and Tammy Hanshaw; and his brother, Wayne Lyell.
Christopher Dale Lyell will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend, but above all, as a proud American soldier who selflessly served his country with honor and integrity.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Processing, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959. Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Christopher Dale Lyell.
I was shocked to see my friend’s obituary in the Elk Valley Times. I just saw Chris at a local restaurant a few weeks ago. It was a pleasure working with him during our time together at Frito-Lay. Please know that the family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Melanie and Jacob I am so sorry for your loss. Chris was a great man. I remember helping coach baseball with him. I remember when he asked my mom could Lacey play on his team. He was a great and sweet man. Mom thought the world of him. I love you Melanie. Your family is in my prayers.
Melanie , Greg, We were so sad to hear about Chris- sad about your mom too Melanie- you have had a-lot in a short time- been praying for God’s comfort – we enjoyed that day st the pizza Inn cutting up snd talking to you both snd your mother -Billy loves to pick at him- so sorry we could not come-
Chris was a friend and a former employee of the highest quality. RIP
Prayers and condolences to the family. Chris and I served together at Ft Ord, CA outstanding NCO and awesome guy. See you on the other side Sir.
Melanie,
My thoughts, prayers, and sincere condolences on the passing of Chris. I will certainly be thinking of you.
Prayers for the family.
Well Crisco you put up one hell of a fight, but he was ready to take you home to Jesus. I have known your family for many years since you were about 8 or 9 years old. You have been a pain when you were little to being a pretty good father and man. I hope to see you again one day. Give Chris and Sandy and all of the others a big hug from me and will see them all again one day. Rest in peace and no more pain and no more sorrow I will see you again.
He will deeply be missed we’ve been friends since we were children his family was always part of mine fly high my brother till we meet again
With our sincere condolences to the family.
Marcella Scott
Chris was one of my sergeants in the Army at Fort Ord. He was a good leader and a good friend. He was fair, honest and always took care of his troops. He helped me when he didn’t have to. Chris will always have a place in my heart for what he did for me. Sorry for y’all’s loss. Army Strong!!
Melanie, Greg, and family,
We’re so very saddened to hear of Chris’s passing.
We go way back. Chris was a good man. A proud father, and veteran.
He served his country well on earth and will be rewarded. He will be missed.
May God bless all of you at this very sad time.
Scott and Gwen Shelton
MELANIE I know Felicia and Chris are in Heaven with each other and God now.My prayer is that God comforts and blesses you and your son.Youall are like my family.i was sorry to hear this news
Melanie and family, I’m so sorry to hear of Chris passing. My prayers, thoughts, and love are with you.
I’m so sorry for your loss.. May God hold you close during this journey.. love you my friend!
I Love You Chris. I want to Thank You for the 29 years I have had to have you for my Brother in Law. God truly Blessed me when you and Melanie met and later became Husband and Wife. You are such a Blessing to me and my Entire Family. You will truly be missed by all of us that Knew You and Loved You. Thank you for the good times you brought to my life. For everything you ever did for me. I will always be indebted to you. You will always Have and Hold a Special Place in my Heart. To you, Melanie, Jacob, and All of us in the “Chris Lyell Family “ You are All In My Thoughts and Prayers. God is in Complete Control of Every Situation.