Lewis James Lyles was born on June 14, 1936, to the late Laura Lyles, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He was educated in the Spartanburg County School System. James was known as a "Jack of All Trades," skilled in carpentry, masonry, electrical work, welding, and auto mechanics.

He loved working on his truck and took great pride in his handywork. At the core of his life was his faith in God, and he never missed an opportunity to share the love of Jesus Christ with others. James was a faithful member of Ridgeville Baptist Church. He enjoyed watching Tyler Perry movies and was a true fan of baseball, especially the Atlanta Braves. His favorite color was purple.

He was preceded in death, along with his mother, by his children, James E. Hill, Robert L. Hill, and Jewel Manning; sons, Reggie Lyles; grandson, Brian K. Lyles, who was reared in the home; granddaughter, Queena Mack; and brother, Junior Lyles.

Left to honor his life and legacy are his children, Lewis (Un Kyong) Lyles Jr. of Savannah, GA, Mary Lyles of the home, and Jackie Thomas (Deniece) Lyles of Boiling Springs, SC; grandchildren, Sabrina (Dock) Pilgrim, Tamika Mack, Yolanda Mack, Antoine (Siera) Lyles, Joshua (Logan) Tate, Jackie Thomas Lyles Jr., Tamorra Lyles, Jermain Kelly, Preosha Chambers, and Shaquita Lyles; great-grandchildren, Jada Lyles, Keyasia Wade, Brian Keith Lyles Jr., A'miyah Tinch, Je'shawn Kelly, Jer'mariua Kelly, Alaya Kelly, Mia Lenley, Jessie Tate, Josiah Tate, Janaysia Tate, Rashad Mack, Tasha Cheek, Najay Mack, Shakira Mack, Sophia Mack, Jazmine Mack, Nathaniel Mack, Ezekiel Mack, Adrian Lyles, and Keenan Lyles; friends, Jerry Lloyd and Forest Teamer; and a host of other relatives and friends.

On the morning of Saturday, October 4, 2025, James transitioned peacefully at his home. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.