September 26, 1939 – November 30, 2023
Lincoln lost a beloved member of its community on November 30, 2023, with the passing of William A. Lyle at the age of 84. Born in Dayton, Ohio, on September 26, 1939, to Henry Alfred Lyle and Nellie Louise Lyle (Richie), William’s journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and a steadfast commitment to his faith.
At the age of 11, William’s family moved to Denver, Colorado, where they founded a Pentecostal Holiness Church, setting the stage for his lifelong spiritual journey. William attended Cole Junior High and graduated from Manuel High School in 1959, after which he pursued higher education at the University of Denver, focusing on accounting and business administration for two years.
Remarkably, William answered the call to pastoral ministry at the tender age of 19, embarking on a path that would see him touch the lives of many through his service. Throughout his diverse career, he managed restaurants, including Village Inn and White Spot, for 15 years, skillfully oversaw his brother Ron Lyle’s boxing business for eight years, and dedicated 28 years to the car business.
In 2005, William married Rose (Jones) Lyle, and he relocated to Lincoln, Nebraska to be with her. Here, he became an integral part of the Bethel Bible Way Apostolic Church, where he served as a minister and devoted member until his lengthy illness. His commitment to his faith extended beyond the pulpit, as evidenced by his involvement in Young People Ministry and his tireless study of the word of Christ.
William’s interests were as diverse as his professional pursuits, encompassing golfing, music, and a deep passion for ministering to the youth. His legacy lives on through his surviving family, including his wife Rose (Jones) Lyle, children William (Delores) Lyle Jr., Janet Lyle-Essex, David Lyle, and Beverley (Michael) Bedford, 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild. As the oldest of 19 siblings, he is remembered fondly by Edward, Raymond, Sharon, Donna, Mark, Marilyn, Robert, Phillip, Joyce, James, Karen, and a host of nieces and nephews.
William A. Lyle is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Nellie Lyle (Richie), and brothers Kenneth, Ronald, Michael, Johnathon, Gerald, Norman, and sister Barbara.
Funeral services to celebrate William’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Bethel Bible Way Apostolic Temple Church, located at 1990 West A Street, Lincoln. A viewing will precede the services, beginning two hours prior. Memorials may be directed to the family for further designation. William A. Lyle’s enduring legacy is etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and he will be sorely missed by the community he served so faithfully.
Rest in Peace my dear friend and confidant. May God bless your family with all the love God allows.
Bill Lyle was my manager at Mr. Steak #33 in Denver. I was a high school student and washed dishes at Mr. Steak. I had never worked closely with an African American before. Mr. Lyle was the best boss I had ever had. He was fair, flexible, honorable, and treated us with respect. I’ve never forgotten him.
I wasn’t a follower of Jesus at the time. Now, since I met Jesus, I look back and realize what a strong testimony of Jesus Mr. Lyle provided. I wish I would have had the opportunity to thank him for his impact on me before his home going. But one day, we’ll be together again. Thank you, brother Lyle, for your faithful love and service to our Lord.