On March 4, 2021, the world lost a truly amazing man, James Lyman, of Point Pleasant.
He was the son of Frank and Carol Lyman whose property on Tohickon Hill Road is where I live. James was a son, a husband, a brother, a critical care cardiac nurse at PennMedicine, and a friend to all. He spent his last month at home with his mom and dad living out his life with grace, courage and dignity.
It was here I came to really know James, not just as I helped care for him, but from friends and family who were there for him during the challenging weeks leading up to his death from cancer. He was 36.
James made the world a better place simply by being in it. His compassion for others truly distinguished him from the rest of us. His gentle heart impacted lives in profound ways, especially those of his coworkers and the critically ill patients they served. A kind word, a gentle touch, taking time to listen and empathize with those whose lives often hung in the balance – were not part of his job description, just something he did. He was born to do this work he liked to say. James was one of those rare souls others looked towards for comfort, laughter and light.
During his final days I was deeply moved and humbled by the love bestowed upon him, the smiles and tears elicited from shared stories about his life, and the profound sadness of those gathered around him.
James died peacefully just as the sun was setting, surrounded by his family and friends and his two beloved dogs. To witness the love, reverence and emotional support he received that afternoon was a privilege and an honor I will reflect upon for the rest of my life.
Please hold his friends and family in the light, including his wife, Holly, and sister Rebecca. May we honor James by becoming a little more kind and compassionate towards one another.
Filling his shoes will take all of us.
From a friend,
John Beacher.
It was James wish that a continuing education fund be established for his co-workers at PennMedicine: Contributions welcome via http://givingpages.upenn.edu/rememberingJameslymanrn.
James life in pictures and stories can be found on his web page, jameslymanrn.com.
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