News Summary
Captain Edward ‘Ted’ Lyon, a revered Navy veteran and a key figure in the establishment of the Navy SEAL program, passed away at 90. His dedication to military service and community advocacy has left an enduring legacy. Lyon’s career spanned critical roles during the Vietnam War and leadership positions in Europe. After retiring, he focused on community preservation efforts, nurturing local history. A celebration of his life will take place soon, as the community honors his commitment to service and his family.
Williamsport, PA – Captain Edward “Ted” Lyon, a celebrated United States Navy veteran and pioneer in the Navy SEAL program, passed away on August 4, 2025, at the age of 90. Known for his dedication to his family, community, and those he commanded, Lyon leaves behind a profound legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Lyon spent a significant portion of his career in the Navy, serving as a commander of one of the first SEAL teams and as the Commander in Chief of U.S. Naval Forces Europe in London. His extensive military service included key roles during the Vietnam War, where he was instrumental in training South Vietnamese forces. Following his retirement, he became an advocate for his community and was involved in several conservation efforts.
Early Life and Military Career
Born in a small town, Ted Lyon initially pursued a pre-med program at Pennsylvania State University. However, after not gaining admission to medical school, he decided to join the Navy instead of the Army. He attended Officer Candidate School (OCS) and was commissioned as an officer in June 1958, which led him to Coronado, California.
During his early military career, Lyon was assigned to the Beach Masters Unit and later transitioned to a staff position. He completed underwater demolition training (UDT) and graduated in 1960, joining UDT 12. The establishment of the SEAL program in 1962 under President Kennedy marked a pivotal moment in Lyon’s career, leading to the formation of SEAL Team One and SEAL Team Two.
Service in the Vietnam War
As the Vietnam War escalated, Lyon served as a UDT member and took part in various special operations and training missions. In 1968, he became the commanding officer of SEAL Team 2 during one of the war’s most turbulent phases. This leadership role highlighted his tactical expertise and commitment to the mission.
Prominent Leadership Roles
Lyon’s career continued to flourish as he was assigned to a four-year position in Europe, where he served as Commander in Chief of U.S. Naval Forces Europe. The Lyon family had the chance to travel extensively throughout Europe, visiting countries like England, Scotland, and Sweden. Upon returning to the United States, he commanded UDT-21 and graduated from the U.S. Army War College.
After his time at the Pentagon, serving for the Chief of Naval Operations, Lyon was promoted to Captain and took command as Commodore of Naval Special Warfare Group 2. His impressive service record also includes serving at MacDill Air Force Base and returning to the Pentagon, further showcasing his commitment to national defense.
In 1985, he completed Defense Intelligence and language training, leading to his role as the U.S. Naval Attaché in Jakarta, Indonesia, where he continued to make significant contributions to military operations beyond U.S. shores.
A Life After the Navy
After retiring from military service, Lyon settled in Nippenose Valley at Lochabar Cottage. He dedicated his time to community advocacy and was involved in preservation and conservation efforts. This included serving as a director of the North Central Pennsylvania Conservancy and also participating actively in Preservation Williamsport, where he played a part in restoring historic homes.
Lyon’s passion for community extended to local events, particularly the Victorian Christmas celebrations, where he and his family opened renovated homes for public enjoyment. An avid bridge player, he also enjoyed camping, gardening, kayaking, hunting, and fishing, demonstrating his love for the outdoors.
Family and Memorial
Captain Lyon was married to Judith “Judee” Belle Lynn for 69 years, having met while both were studying at Pennsylvania State University. They married when Judee was a sophomore and Ted was a senior. Together, they raised a family that reflects the values of dedication, service, and community support.
A celebration of Ted Lyon’s life is scheduled to take place on September 3 at Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Christ Church, the North Central Pennsylvania Conservancy, or Preservation Williamsport, ensuring that Lyon’s legacy of community service and advocacy continues to endure.
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Additional Resources
- Sun Gazette: Captain Edward “Ted” Lyon Obituary
- New York Times: Travel Escapes
- Sun Gazette: Preservationist Musician
- North Central PA: Edward “Ted” Lyon Obituary
- Sun Gazette: Edward “Ted” Lyon Remembered
- Wikipedia: Navy SEAL
- Google Search: Edward Ted Lyon
- Google Scholar: Edward Ted Lyon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: United States Navy
- Google News: Edward Ted Lyon
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
