William Lyda

William Oscar Lyda was born February 2nd, 1934 in Twin Falls Idaho to Ancil Myvert and Della Mae Lyda. The youngest of 8 children Bill was an independent and ambitious child who knew that if he wanted something he had to work hard for it. He loved to sing and sang in the choir in high school. After graduating from Twin Falls High School Bill enlisted in the Army and while stationed in Verdun France joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

After completing his service in the Army Bill served a mission for his church in The Great Lakes United States Mission. When he returned home from his mission he met the love of his life Linda Ford when he taught her Sunday School class. They were married in the Idaho Falls Temple January 23rd, 1961. They lived in Provo Utah for a time while Bill pursued his education at BYU. They eventually settled back in their hometown of Twin Falls Idaho and welcomed 7 wonderful children in the course of their 63 year marriage. Bill was a teacher at heart. He loved to impart his knowledge to those he loved and offer his advice. He was always teaching us. He was offering life lessons until the very end. He was a friend to all and never met a stranger. He had the gift of making friends no matter where he went.

Bill worked as an insurance agent for Mutual of New York for most of his career. He started Lyda insurance with 2 of his children towards the end of his career and was always a successful and hard worker. He reluctantly retired after having a stroke in 2011. Though he lost the ability to drive he didn’t lose his zest for life. He spent the last years of his life writing poetry, gaining knowledge and studying the gospel in the company of his beloved wife Linda. Bill passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on May 30, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and his Grandson A.J. Lyda. He is survived by his eternal companion Linda, and children, Ronda Lyda-Jones (Bryan Sauer) Brenda (Mike) Traveller, Jana (Trevor) Brown, Nathan (Wendy) Lyda, Aaron (Danielle) Lyda, Andy (Amanda) Lyda and Ben (Chelsea) Lyda, 24 Grandchildren and 27 Great Grandchildren. He leaves behind a great legacy.