Charles “Is Said” Lyons

Charles “Is Said” Lyons is preceded in death by his wife of 48 years; Anita Louise (Goines) Lyons, parents; George and Mabel Lyons, brother; Harold Lyons, and sister; Peggye Lyons.

He is survived by his brothers; George Lyons, Robert Lyons, James Lyons, Franklin Lyons, Jonny Lyons, and sisters; Betty Henderson and Sandra Hemphill, children; Stanley Lyons, Annette Lyons and Leah Lyons, grandchildren; Korinne Spencer, Reginald Scott, Michael Lyons, Ryan Scott, Alexis Lyons, Nyah Derrett and Trey Derrett, grandchildren; Alissa Scott, Victoria Lyons, Rhyan Scott, Marleigh Curtis, Clifton Curtis III, Ethan Spencer, Phoenix Spencer, Zadie Scott, August Scott and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

Charles “Is Said” Lyons, a renowned poet, play writer, and storyteller, passed away at the age of 88. He was a master of the written and spoken word, captivating audiences with his words and leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.

Charles was born on January 26, 1935, and raised in Atlanta, GA. He moved to Columbus, Ohio as a teenager and after graduating from East High School joined the United States Air Force. After leaving the Air Force he moved back to Columbus, Ohio where met his beloved wife of 48 years, Anita (Goines) Lyons.

Is Said wrote over 60 books and 40 plays. He discovered his love for writing and storytelling at an early age and went on to pursue a career in the arts. He made a name for himself, as a poet, play writer, and storyteller, earning accolades and recognition for his work including receiving the 2011 Columbus Legend Award from the King Art Complex, named Hot Times “HERO” of the year. He was honored as a Lincoln Theatre Walk of Fame Inductee in 2021. His name is forever embedded in front of the Lincoln and in the community he loved.

Is Said was known for his ability to bring his plays to life, evoking emotions in his audience and taking them on a journey through his words. He wrote about a range of subjects, from love and heartbreak to social and political issues. His works inspired many and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Is Said was a visionary in the world of the arts, inspiring and empowering audiences through his powerful and spiritual works. In 1973, he founded the Columbus-based “Advance Party,” bringing his unique vision to life and later collaborating with the Uhuru Dancers.

He shares his expertise with school age or homeless youth, growing artists, and senior citizens, conducting educational workshops fostering literacy, creativity, performance skills and, most importantly, self-awareness. Through his workshops, he encouraged individuals to embrace their individuality and harness their artistic talents.

Is Said’s impact on the world of the arts was significant and far-reaching. He left a lasting legacy, and his works continue to inspire and inform audiences to this day. Charles will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans. His legacy will live on through his works, which continue to inspire and bring joy to those who read them. Rest in peace, Is Said, a true leader in the world of the arts.

Visitation/Viewing ONLY 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd.).

Memorial Service 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Thursday, February 16, 2023 Lincoln Theatre 769 E. Long Street 43203.

Repass 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Thursday, February 16, 2023 King Arts Complex 835 Mt. Vernon Ave Columbus, Ohio 43203.

Interment 10:00 AM Friday, February 17, 2023 at Evergreen Burial Park.