The world of American religion bid farewell to one of its most colorful and controversial figures this week.
Henry J. Lyons, the former leader of the National Baptist Convention, passed away on October 27 in Tampa, Florida, at the age of 83.
The cause of death has not yet been released.
While Lyons’ ministry was celebrated for its fiery sermons and his commitment to the community, his life was equally marked by scandal and controversy.
Rise to Prominence and Leadership
Lyons led the National Baptist Convention from 1994 to 1998, becoming known for his passionate preaching and influential leadership.
The church acknowledged his contributions, stating, “His unwavering commitment to the church and community will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.”
But behind the pulpit, Lyons’ personal life and financial dealings painted a more complex picture.
Scandal and Legal Troubles
Lyons’ life outside the church was fraught with controversy.
He served five years in prison for financial crimes and was involved in a highly publicized extramarital affair.
In 1997, while on a lavish trip to Nigeria with his mistress, his wife Deborah discovered a real estate deed that revealed his infidelity.
In retaliation, she set fires in his home in Tierra Verde, Florida, causing $30,000 in damage. Deborah was later charged with arson and burglary, receiving five years of probation.
Further investigations revealed that Lyons had an illegitimate child and relationships with multiple women.
Financial Misconduct
Lyons’ legal troubles didn’t end with his personal life.
Upon becoming president of the National Baptist Convention, he opened the Baptist Builder Fund account, which he, his employee Bernice V. Edwards, and businesswoman Brenda Harris misused to fund luxurious purchases including a St. Petersburg home, a Mercedes, and expensive jewelry.
In 1998, the trio faced a 61-count federal indictment for tax evasion, money laundering, and bank fraud.
Lyons pled guilty and was sentenced to four years in prison.
Return to Preaching and Later Controversy
After his release, Lyons returned to preaching in 2004 at a Tampa church, but his attempt to regain leadership at the National Baptist Convention and the Florida General Baptist Convention failed.
Over eight years at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, Lyons’ financial management again came under scrutiny, culminating in the church filing for bankruptcy amid revelations that he had shifted funds to secret accounts.
Family Remembers the ‘Baddest Preacher in the 90s’
Despite the controversies, Lyons’ family remembers him fondly.
They describe him as “one of the baddest preachers in the 90s” and a figure who played an influential role in the Baptist community.
His granddaughter, Tee Jay Elle, reflected on his complexity, writing, “He was a BAD man, but to Tyler and I, he was ‘granddad,’ and he loved us so much.
I find comfort & peace in knowing that he’s resting and gratitude for the time spent together.”
His daughter, Treva Lyons Kelly, echoed this sentiment, highlighting both his flaws and his positive contributions: “My daddy was many things to many people – pastor, husband, father, grandfather, mentor, philanthropist, trailblazer, giant, and servant leader and activist in his community.
He taught me to stand strong in my faith and always stand forever’s right and for equality not only for myself and my children, but for everyone. I love you and miss you, daddy.”
A Life of Contrasts
Henry J. Lyons’ legacy will be remembered as one of passionate preaching, impactful leadership, and controversial personal and financial decisions.
His life illustrates the complicated intersection of faith, ambition, and human flaws — leaving behind memories that are as complex as the man himself.