James G. Lyda was born in Tampa, Florida April 24th, 1958. He died peacefully on February 13th, 2026 in Easley, SC held by his loving wife, Kathy, and surrounded by the love of his family. James was known to most simply as Jim, he was loving, funny, adventurous, and free-spirited.

After graduating from East Ridge High School in Tennessee and attending some college, Jim worked as a Parts Specialist for Ford Motor Company for over 25 years. He was a former member of Eastridge Baptist Church in Tennessee. He was happiest on his Harley Davidson, riding free with the wind in his face. He rode the Tail of the Dragon several times with his wife, Kathy.

Jim took great pride in being a grandpa and will be forever cherished as Papa. He especially loved sharing a birthday with his first and only granddaughter, Skylar. He never let her forget she ‘stole’ his day, calling her the best gift he ever got even if it meant he officially retired from ever having to celebrate another birthday of his own. He was a lifelong movie buff whose passion for a good film was only rivaled by the pleasure he took in teasing those he loved most. His sense of humor was a legacy as much as his sought-after potato salad.

The most notable favorite flick was Mrs. Doubtfire. It was the hilarious beginning to their long, perfectly imperfect journey of bringing two families together. He enjoyed spending his time rooting for the Tennessee Vols and Atlanta Falcons, listening to great music like his favorite, Santana. He also took part in many late-night raids in World of Warcraft with friends he met from all over.. To commemorate their shared love for the game, his youngest daughter, Jamie, has constructed a special tribute garden. It is a quiet spot where his family and the many friends he met online can go to visit him. Jim was a devoted dog dad to Judah and Daisy; he also had a soft spot for Shortcake, Jamie and Matt's fur baby.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife Kathy; his children Amanda (Christopher), Andrew, Shannon, and Jamie (Matt); his grandchildren Skylar, Jefferson, and Andrew; great-grandson Adrian. He is also survived by his nephews and niece, Chris, Matt, Josh, and Ashley; and brother, Gary. Jim was revered by an extensive circle of other friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents Billy and Suzanna Lyda; his brother, Mike; and his grandsons Allen and Jacob Crenshaw.

In keeping with Jim’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Instead, his family asks that you remember him in your own way. Maybe you can root for the Vols, crank up some Santana, or give someone you love a hard time just for the laugh. He lived life on his own terms and our Papa would want his departure to be just as simple as that. We know we’ll still see signs that he’s with us, especially in those quiet moments in the garden Jamie built for him, or in the sudden mischievous thoughts that make us smile when we need it the most.