Bennie Lyons, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away on September 9, 2026. Born on November 19, 1938, Bennie lived a life marked by faith, devotion to family, generosity, and love. She was the daughter of the late Bennie Lyons Sr. and Lealer Bell Stallworth Parker. Bennie was a proud graduate of Central High School, Class of 1957. Later, in the early sixties, Bennie became a mother and relocated to New York City with her daughter. Bennie’s professional experience spanned several fields. Early on, she was a clerk at Sterling Optical in the financial district in NYC. She also worked briefly in the medical field during the 1980’s. However, Bennie found her true calling when she started working at NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation. She worked there faithfully until she retired as a Principal Administrative Associate with the Capital Budget and Contracts Department. Upon her retirement, she decided to return home to Mobile, Alabama. Bennie had an immense passion for sewing, traveling, music and playing bid whist. As a talented seamstress, one of her most treasured expressions of love was making the wedding dress for her only daughter, Renée. It was more than a dress; it was a beautiful reflection of a mother’s love; carefully created by her own hands for one of the most important days in her daughter’s life. Family was at the heart of Bennie’s life. She had a special relationship with her grandchildren and treasured staying connected with them. She enjoyed the hours she spent talking with her eldest grandson, Steven, during their regular conversations throughout the month. She looked forward to the yearly visits from her grandchildren from New York during her birthday week. Bennie also had her own special way of remembering those she loved. When birthdays came around, family members could expect a birthday card from her, lovingly accompanied by a monetary gift. These simple but meaningful traditions were part of the way Bennie made sure her family knew they were remembered and loved. Once Bennie entered a relationship with the Lord, she became an avid churchgoer. Her faith journey began with membership at Christian Cultural Center, Brooklyn New York, and she frequently visited Redeeming Love Christian Center in Nanuet, New York. Upon relocating to Mobile, Alabama, Bennie prayerfully searched for a church home and settled where the Lord and her heart led her, High Point Baptist Church. Her unwavering devotion to the Lord remained a guiding light throughout her life. This devotion sustained her through life’s joys and challenges and became an important part of the legacy she leaves behind. Bennie leaves to cherish her memory, her loving daughter Donna Renée Wallerson (Esmond); and three beloved grandchildren, Steven Wallerson, Paul Wallerson (Danielle), and Brittney Wallerson Thomas (Emeka). Her siblings include Annie Wooten; Willie Bell Montree (James); the late Jercklyn “Jut” Stallworth; the late Henry Nell Stallworth; Charles Parker (Pat); the late Doughlas Parker Jr.; the late Frederick Parker; Priscilla Briggett (Larry); Carolyn Lyons; Linda Lyons; and the late Bennie Lyons Jr. Bennie was also blessed with an extraordinary friendship that endured for 64 years with her cherished friend, Georgia “Gigi” Thorton of Brooklyn, New York. Their lifelong friendship started in October 1962 and was a testament to the lasting bonds Bennie formed with those she loved. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her presence. Bennie’s life will be remembered through the love she gave so freely, the family traditions she faithfully maintained, the friendships she treasured, and the faith she carried throughout her journey. Her family will hold close the countless memories of a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose love was expressed not only in words, but through the thoughtful and caring things she did for those around her. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of her family and all who knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests for monetary donations to be given to Bennie’s home church, High Point Baptist Church, to help further the Lord’s work here on Earth. Their address is: 2421 Lott Rd. Eight Mile, AL. 36613 and their phone number is 251-452-4601.
November 19, 1938 - September 9, 2026
