William “Billy” Lyons

William (Billy) Lyons left us much too soon on February 5, 2023, surrounded by his adoring family.  He was a native Sacramentan, born April 18, 1946, and son of Kenny and Catherine Lyons.  He graduated from Hiram Johnson High School and Sac State with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.

Billy was indescribably passionate about the things he loved most, including his wife Valerie, daughter Amy, granddaughter Addison, son-in-law Pat, his cat Buddy, his home, discussing cars with his buddies over some Early Times, as well as the Sacramento Police Department.   He followed his father to the department and proudly served over 50 years as an ID tech, on patrol, CSI, the paddy wagon and fulfilling his dream of creating and working for the mounted unit with his beloved partners Oak, Loot and Briar.  He is an icon at the Front Street mounted facility and received the distinct honor of having the “barn” dedicated to Officer Billy Lyons.   He was also recognized frequently in the Bee during his career for his compassion, kindness, concern, and caretaking of the downtown community.   There were very few residents, proprietors or citizens who didn’t know and love Officer Billy.    His legacy will live on forever.

Billy was a devoted husband, father and took a very active role with his granddaughter who spent many unforgettable days with him and the horses.  He was a humble soul and genuinely celebrated everyone else’s success.  He was quick to offer his help and always gave more than he took.  He was a unique character and truly one of the very best.  He filled every room he entered with generous hugs, compliments, and a little Old Spice.   Heaven is a more loving, happier, and much noisier place these days, but he will forever be loved and missed beyond measure by those he left behind.

The family is planning a celebration of his beautiful life and in lieu of flowers, they request donations be made to the Sacramento Police Mounted Association, tax ID 27-1771422.   Contributions can be made through their PayPal account or by forwarding or dropping off cash or check donations to the attention of Sgt. Jason Kirtlan, SPD Mounted Unit, 2700 Front Street, Sacramento, CA  95818.