Gerald Van Lyles

Gerald Van Lyles, age 78, of Ruston, Louisiana, passed away on March 12, 2026. Born on June 21, 1947, in Weatherford, Texas, to Virginia Blalock Lyles and Van Edwin Lyles, Gerald lived a life marked by quiet strength, loyalty, and a deep devotion to those he loved.

He was a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and a trusted mentor to many. Gerald spent 43 years building a respected career at TL James, where his steady character and work ethic earned him the admiration of colleagues and friends alike. In his free time, he took pleasure in life’s simpler pursuits, cheering for his favorite NASCAR drivers and happily tinkering on projects in his shop.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Van Lyles, his brother Wayne Lyles, and his sister Glenda Credeur. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Denise Tucker Lyles; sons Thomas Alan Lyles and wife Joanna, Jack Murray Lyles and wife Hollis, and James Lindsey Lyles and wife Mary; chosen son Jason Bullock; grandchildren Zackary Lyles, Matthew Lyles, Ethan Brickley, Addison Lyles, Emily Lyles, and Ally-Kate Lyles; niece Laurie Credeur; and a wide circle of family and friends who will carry his memory with great affection.