Linda Ruth (Gray) Lyon

Linda Ruth Gray Lyon, 75, of Athens, GA entered the gates of Heaven on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 surrounded by loved ones. Linda was born on July 13, 1941 in Atlanta, GA to the late Hugh Dorsey Gray, Sr. and Marie Jones Gray Coheley. She is preceded in death by her beloved brothers; Hugh Dorsey (Bo) Gray, Jr., Wayne Richard Gray, and Alan Lawrence Gray. Survivors include her daughter Susan Gray Lyon; granddaughter, Elizabeth Ruth Reese; former spouse, Chesley Emerson Lyon; and sisters, Tina Marie Collett and Donna Marie Anderson. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own. She most recently lived with her nephew, Silas Dorsey Gray.

Ms. Lyon was first employed with the Atlanta Police Department in 1959, and was a member of the law enforcement community for most of her career. She moved to Athens 1966 where she worked for the Clarke County Sheriff's department, becoming the first sworn female Deputy Sheriff. She loyally served the Athens-Clarke County community through her work in law enforcement until her retirement in 2000, receiving several honors and recognitions throughout her decorated career. She was a phenomenal leader, humanitarian, friend, and loved one. She impacted so many people lives with positivity, compassion, and fierceness.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 27, at 3pm at East Athens Baptist Church; 4375 Lexington Rd; Athens, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory the ACC Employee Assistance Fund; ATTN: John Holden, Finance Dept.; P.O. Box 1868; Athens, GA 30603.

Lord & Stephens, East is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com