Rev. James Lyda, at age 80, first pastor and founder of the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Chicago, Ill., went into eternal rest after a long illness. He departed this life, Wednesday, February 13, at 4:45 a.m. at Paramore hospital, Crown Point, Ind. He was a resident of Hammond, Ind.

His family members are the widow, Elder Margie Lyda; a son, Rev. Robert Lowery; three sisters; one brother. He was the fourth son of twelve children born to Lawson and Amanda Lyda natives of Sparta, Tenn. He was married to Mrs. Margie Lowery in 1948.

Rev. Lyda pastored the church he founded from 1944 until his retirement (emeritus) in 1968. Not only was he an active pastor-leader of the church, but one who served in the work of Ky. Synod, Cleveland, Ohio Presbytery and the General Assembly. He was a preacher of great worth.

One sermon delivered by him years ago has stayed in the memory of those who heard it to this day. The theme he used was, "Excuses, Excuses." He believed everyone should live up to their commitments, that excuses were not the way for real Christian dedication.

The funeral was held at Bethel A.M.E. Church in Hammond, Ind. The eulogy was given by Rev. Andrew West, pastor of First Cumberland Presbyterian, Chicago. Elder Richard Baugh, a long time fellow worker with this great founder-pastor, expressed sincere feelings of regret and how deeply his leadership will be missed. There were ministers and others who expressed how in many noble ways this ministers' life had given inspiration and courage to their life.

His interment is in Oak Hill Cemetery, Gary, Ind.

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

On February 13, 1974, at 4:45 a.m., the Lord called our Past or Emeritus, Rev. James Lyda, from his labor, to his rest. Rev. James Lyda was the first Pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and served in that capacity until the time of his death. He served us well until his health failed. He worked diligently with the church, ever tiring. He was one who always shouldered his responsibilities kind heartedly and gave all ministers a chance. We can truly say he worked out his soul's salvation. I can say, he always met his members with a smile, and gave advice with all his wisdom. No one ever really dies; they live on in our memories, especially one, as he, who lived such a meaningful life. Fond memories of him shall remain with us. His favorite verse in the Holy Bible was Psalm 122:2,3: "I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem."
             Louise West, Reporter
[Source: The Cumberland Flag, March 1974, pages 1, 5 & 7]