John Phillips Lye III

John Phillips Lye II, age 82, passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at his home in Knoxville TN.

He was born July 6, 1943, in Erie, PA to John and Margaret (Pulford) Lye. He graduated from Harbor Creek High School and attended Penn State and Gannon Universities. He retired from General Electric after 28 years of employment.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother, sisters, as well as his eldest son, John “Jay” Lye III, and grandson, Justin Grugin.

John was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved being a “Papa” to his eight precious grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara Pannell Lye; daughters, Cheryl (David) Grugin who he lived with in Knoxville, TN., Megan (Mark) Senderak of Glen Allen, VA., son, Eric (Angela) Lye of Tampa, FL., and daughter-in-law, Kim Lye of Erie, PA.; in addition he is also survived by his grandchildren: Kaitlynn Lye, Garret Lye, Nathaniel (Mikayla) Grugin, Noah Grugin, Kyleigh Grugin, Sullivan Senderak, Ethan Lye, and Matilda Senderak; sisters-in-law, Beverly Clark, Linda (Edward) Schneider, and Patty Panell; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will celebrate John’s life at a later date.

The family would like to thank the University of Tennessee Hospice for their support during this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be designated to the University of Tennessee Hospice, 4435 Valley View Road, Knoxville, TN 37917. An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences made at www.mynattfh.com.