News Summary
The Spartanburg community is mourning the loss of Sarah Dorothy “Dot” Lyles, a beloved second-grade teacher and church member, who passed away at 94. Dot was known for her dedication to education and her active involvement in the community. Survived by her daughter and grandson, her legacy as a nurturing educator and friend will continue to live on. A visitation and funeral service will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, where friends and family are encouraged to celebrate her joyful spirit.
Spartanburg Community Mourns the Passing of Beloved Educator Sarah Dorothy “Dot” Lyles
Spartanburg, SC – Sarah Dorothy “Dot” Lyles, a cherished member of the Spartanburg community and beloved second-grade teacher, passed away peacefully at her home on June 20, 2025, at the age of 94. Dot’s dedication to education and her active role in her church made her a well-respected figure in the area.
Born on July 16, 1930, in Dillon, South Carolina, Dot was the daughter of the late William Gaston Lucas and Sarah Dorothy Barlow Lucas Allen. She graduated from Dillon High School in 1947 before furthering her education at Winthrop University, where she completed her studies in 1951.
Dot devoted several years to teaching as a second-grade educator at Pine Street Elementary School in Spartanburg. Her impact on her students and the community was profound, as many remember her warm and encouraging approach to learning. In addition to her teaching career, Dot was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church, where a circle is named in her honor, known as “The Dot Lyles Circle,” recognizing her contributions and involvement within the congregation.
Family and Legacy
Dot is survived by her daughter, Lynn Lucas Lyles, and grandson, Matthew C. Rambish, who lives in Richmond Hill, Georgia. She also leaves behind her son-in-law, M. L. (Butch) Rambish of Moore, South Carolina, and her sister, Louise Lucas Ardrey of Rock Hill, South Carolina. Dot was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Cross Lyles, M.D., with whom she shared 63 years of marriage, and her daughter, Margaret Lyles Rambish. Additionally, she was predeceased by her sisters: Willie Gaston “Wiggie” Lucas Jones, Mary Jane Allen Magrath, and Evelyn Allen Linder.
In her later years, Dot received exceptional care from caregivers Jamie, Gina, and Samia, along with others from All Ways Caring Homecare and Elite Homecare, which enabled her to remain in the comfort of her home.
Services and Memorial Contributions
A visitation for family and friends will be held on July 2nd from 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM at Trinity United Methodist Church. Following the visitation, a funeral service is scheduled to take place at 1:30 PM, conducted by Pastor Ricky Howell. Those attending the service are encouraged to dress in colorful clothing to honor Dot’s love for butterflies, which brought her much joy throughout her life. Following the service, Dot will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church Endowment Fund, Bible Study Fellowship, Mobile Meals, Spartanburg Regional Foundation, or any charity of choice. An online guest register is available for those wishing to leave their condolences and share memories of Dot.
Obituary Announcement
Dot Lyles’s obituary was published in the Spartanburg Herald-Journal on June 26, 2025, reflecting on her remarkable life and the positive imprint she left on those around her.
Her legacy as an educator, mother, and friend will continue to resonate within the Spartanburg community, as many remember her for her kindness, dedication, and vibrant spirit.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Obituary for Eddie Dogan
- Obituary for Linda Rubino
- Obituary from Goupstate
- Obituary for Philip Porter
- Obituary for Carolyn Atkins
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Google Search: Obituaries
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Google News: Obituary
- Google Scholar: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York 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 Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
