It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Kent Arrias Lyles, of Monroe, North Carolina at the age of 63. Kent was born on February 7, 1963, in Buffalo, New York to Johnson A. Lyles and Ruth E. Lyles.

He is survived by his loving wife, Martita, who stood by his side with devotion and care. He leaves behind three cherished daughters Madonna Harper, Rita Scott (Tario Scott), and Arrias Lyles, and seven grandchildren, Breanna Harper, Shya Harper, Monte Harper III, Ramiah Dixon, Joshua Colbert, and Jaelani Lyles, who will carry forward his legacy and forever remember him with love. He is fondly remembered by Jonquill Parnell and Sherri Scott, to whom he was a fatherly presence. He also leaves behind four beloved stepchildren, Lehana Jones, Sydney Jones, Frank Jones, and Jesci Jones, whom he loved and embraced as his own. Together, they were all the center of his world, and he took immense pride in each of them.

Kent is also survived by his loving brothers and sister, Scott Sayles (Boksun Sayles), Terry Lyles (Michelle Lyles), and Kim Williams (Marvin Williams), along with his dearest cousin Starr Cox, as well as extended family members and many treasured friends who will miss him deeply.

He is now reunited in heaven with his parents Johnson and Ruth, and his brother Jesse Lyles.

Kent will be remembered for his warm spirit, his sense of humor and smile, his wisdom and the countless lives he impacted through his kindness and steady presence. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Relatives and friends may visit a gathering in Kent's memory at the LOMBARDO FUNERAL HOME (Snyder Chapel) 4614 Main St., near Harlem Rd. on Saturday April 11, from 11-12 Noon where a Funeral Service will immediately follow at 12 Noon.