Reverend Howard Derx Lyons Sr. , 86, Minot, passed away August 12, 2024, in a Minot hospital.

Howard was born December 18, 1937, to Clayton and Johnnie (Derx) Lyons. He was raised and educated in Ohio and Louisiana.

During his younger years he traveled to many places around the world while he was working for Offshore Navigation and serving in the US Navy. He also worked as a software programmer, teacher, pilot in Alaska, and finally a Lutheran Pastor.

Howard completed his seminary training at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. He as a pastor to many congregations throughout the United States and locally in Langdon/Munich and Pettibone/Woodworth, North Dakota. He retired to Minot, ND to be near family.

Howard was blessed with five biological children and four stepchildren, four grandchildren, two brothers and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandchild Olivia Lyons and sister Sue.

Howard was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Minot, MARS, Souris Valley ARC (call sign KC7JS) and was a lifetime member of the VFW. He enjoyed woodcarving, playing the Irish flute and had an eye for photography in his younger years.

Per Howard's wishes, he gifted his body to the University of North Dakota Medical School for study.

A time for family and friends to sign a memorial register book will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND upon the completion of medical study.