North Carolina mourns firefighter Jaywon Lyons as community rallies around his legacy

The body of 25-year-old firefighter Jaywon Reshad Lyons was returned to North Carolina on June 23, following his tragic death during a snorkeling excursion in Turks and Caicos.

Lyons died on June 6 while vacationing with his girlfriend and her family.

Jaywon Reshad Lyons was a beloved firefighter

He served with distinction at the Leggett Volunteer Fire Department, Red Oak Community Rural Fire Department, and Edgecombe County Emergency Management.

Known for his courage and compassion, he also assisted with wildfire relief in California and Hurricane Helene response efforts in Western North Carolina.

“He loved family… loved to travel. He was just… he was liked by a lot of people,” said his mother, Roshawnda Daniels to ABC 11.

Another family tragedy

The loss of Lyons marks the second tragedy for Daniels, who previously lost her younger son, Jaleel, to violence. She believes the brothers’ deep bond played a role in Jaywon’s emotional struggles, saying, “Jaywon missed his brother. He couldn’t take it no more—they were so close”.

Community support for Jaywon Reshad Lyons

A public viewing and funeral service were held on June 28 at Edgecombe Community College, where Lyons was honored by fellow firefighters, family, and friends.

GoFundMe campaign

In the wake of his passing, a GoFundMe campaign titled “Continued help for Jaywon’s Family” remains active.

The fundraiser has helped cover repatriation costs and continues to support Lyons’ two young daughters.

“Keep those donations coming for his girls,” reads a recent update. “You all are wonderful and stay blessed”.

The campaign reflects the outpouring of love from the community, which rallied to bring Lyons home and now seeks to ensure his daughters are cared for in his absence.

“Even though he’s not here, he’ll always be watching over them”.