James Lyles
June 15, 1922 ~ March 29, 2011
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
James C. "Jim" Lyles, 88, of Asheville, died on Tuesday, March 29, 2011, at Memorial Campus, Mission Hospitals.
A native of Buncombe Co. and a lifelong resident of West Asheville, Mr. Lyles was a son of the late Roland and Opal Curtis Lyles. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Betty Imogene Ariail Lyles, who died last November, and their daughter, Sandra Jo Lyles.
"Slick" graduated from Lee H. Edwards High School, where he starred on the basketball team. He later played for and graduated from Wake Forest University. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during WWII in Europe and North Africa. He was a member of VFW Post #891.
Mr. Lyles is survived by his daughter, Yvette Ballard, and husband Mike, of Black Mountain.
A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday at Green Hills Cemetery with the Rev. Shannon J. Kershner, of Black Mountain Presbyterian Church, officiating with military honors performed by the North Carolina Honor Guard.
Groce Funeral Home on Patton Ave. is assisting the family with arrangements.
Asheville Butterfly Trail





Jim’s Family, My first contact with Jim was as a youngster swimming at the Old Malvern Hills Pool where he worked as a locker boy. Since he lived on Wendover Rd. near my sister’s house I used to see him occasionally. Regardless of age, health, or any other circumstance we are never ready to lose our loved ones and the only comfort has to come from our Faith in the Sovereignty of God and the manifested concern of caring friends. We are thinking of you. Joe Clark
I worked with Jim at Postal Accounts for years. He was probably the most liked guy in our department. It was always fun to visit with him over coffee every morning as we worked side by side. I have not seen Jim for over 60 years but will always remember him. He was always such a friendly guy to everyone.
I worked with Jim for years downtown in the Arcade building. I was a youngster and Jim would tell tales of the old days. He was one of the good guys, and will always be remembered.
Sorry to hear about ‘SLICK’! He was one of the good guys, always had a funny thought! We both worked at the Climatic Center, he for the Air Force and I for Commerce.
Have not seen him since I retired in 1986, but I often think of all the good friends that we worked with!
MAY GOD BE WITH SLICK, HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS!
LOVE, GLENN
I worked with Jim for some 20yrs–he was always smiling and could cheer a person up on a bad day–that says a lot for his character and christian ways–God Bless all his family and friends.
I was saddened to hear of Jim’s passing, but I know he is in a wonderful place. I worked with Jim and he was always so much fun to work with. I so enjoyed all the stories he would tell us. Slick – we miss you.
I was sorry to read this morning of Jim’s passing. I worked with him for 10 years at the Federal Building with the Air Force. Very likeable man. Sad to realize he is no longer with us.
Yevette and Mike, you are both in my thoughts–‘love leaves a memory no one can steal.’ My life has been enriched through my experience of serving your dad and you the last few months. It has been a great honor getting to know a man who has touched many and remained so humble. He always expressed his gratitude for all you did! He and your mom and you will always be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you with serenity and give you solace and peace.
We Have lost aGood friend ,neighbor and Co-worker.Gilmer will miss him coming by and chatting.They would discuss ever thing.they shared sports politics,Cars They enjoyed visiting with each other.Slick would call if the braves didn’t have e good night.he always got a Atlanta paper so they knew everyting about the braves.They were so happy to have their Daughter back here . every time we drive by We will be saddned.They are in a better place but We will miss them.please let us know if we can help you in any way.We are just up the street. our prayers are with you, Gilmer and Chris Boyd
WHEN YOU LOSE SOMEONE YOU LOVE, YOUR MEMORIES BECOME TREASURES, CHERISH THEM.
YOUR DAD WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON,
HE PUT A SMILE ON MANY, MANY FACES.
Yvette,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. You have been such a faithful, caring daughter to your parents. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Yvette:
We are sorry about your Dad’s long illness and death. Yet, God is great and will sustain you. Proverbs 3:5-6