John Thomas "Tommy" Lyman, Jr.

John Thomas "Tommy" Lyman, Jr. 73 of Ashton, Nebraska died May 27, 2025 peacefully at his home surrounded by his family.

Born March 4, 1952, in Council Grove, Kansas, Tommy was the son of John T. Lyman, Sr. and Donna (Paul) Lyman. He was raised in McPherson, Kansas, and graduated from McPherson High School in 1970. He served in the United States Army from 1970 to 1973.

Tommy was a simple man who didn’t need much. He appreciated the quiet pace of rural life, preferred conversation over noise, and found joy in the little things — a good meal, a drive through the country, a well-worn tractor, or a funny story told just right. He had a dry, quick wit and a one-of-a-kind giggle that got others laughing.

He never knew a stranger. Tommy could strike up a conversation with just about anyone and genuinely enjoyed sitting outside, catching up with friends and neighbors, and watching the world go by. A lawn chair in the shade, a cold refreshment, and good company — that’s all he ever really needed.

Though he wasn’t one for big gestures or a lot of words, his family always held a place at the center of his life — especially his children and grandchildren. Nothing lit him up quite like being “Pops.” Whether it was teasing them, watching them play, or just sitting nearby, being Pops brought out the best in him. His grandkids knew they had his full attention when they were around, and those memories will stick.

Tommy made his living as an electrician and electrical inspector. He valued quality, didn’t put up with nonsense, and could be counted on to get the job done without a fuss.

Tommy married Peg Dzingle Lyman in August 1998. He is survived by Peg, of the home, and his children: Summer (Jarrod) Lamborn of Beggs, OK; Brooke (Bob) Davis of Pittsburg, KS; Trey (Tiffany) Lyman of McPherson, KS; Trevor Lyman of McPherson, KS; and step-children: Corri (Seth) Roberts of Wichita, KS; John Schimon of Shawnee, KS; and Danny (Debbie) Manning of Grand Rapids, Michigan. He leaves behind twelve grandchildren who were the highlight of his days.

He is also survived by his siblings: Cathy Crane of Lindsborg, KS; Dale (Cathy) Lyman of Ness City, KS; and Lana (Rick) Hauschel of Valley Falls, KS. Also surviving are his in-laws: Gladys Maciejewski of Grand Island, NE; Ervan (Marge) Dzingle of Loup City, NE; Pat (Herb) Compton of Omaha, NE; and Janelle Mostek of Ashton, NE.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Donna Lyman; infant daughter, Brandi Michelle Lyman and his brothers-in-law, Terry Mostek and Sonny Maciejewski.

In his later years, Tommy faced health challenges, and Peg was by his side through it all. She cared for him with unwavering dedication, allowing him to remain at home and at peace until the very end.

Tommy will be remembered for his humor, his quiet steadiness, and his ability to make people laugh without saying much. He didn’t need a lot — just a comfortable chair, a few grandkids nearby, a bit of engine grease under his nails, and a friend to visit with.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Higgins Funeral Home.

In leu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnels to Towers, T2T.org or Tommy Lyman memorial fund.