For 25 years, Rena Scott-Lyles and her husband, Alan Lyles, resided at their house in the 1300 block of Bayard Avenue.
As local block captains, the 60-year-old and her husband—who was also a church pastor—were known for their service to the community.
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Rena’s sister, Earleana Scott, told First Alert 4 that “they both used to walk around and assist people if it was needed.”
When the tornado struck, Scott-Lyles and her spouse were at home and attempted to seek refuge in the basement.
“They were holding hands and all of a sudden the wind came. Very strong,” Scott said.
Members of the family said that the wind tore the couple apart before their three-story home collapsed on top of them. Although Lyles’ wife did not survive, those in the vicinity heard his cries for help and came to his aid. Their home has been left in crumbles after the roof caved in.
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“I’m just going to truly miss my sister,” Scott expressed.
Scott-Lyles is the fourth victim to be recognized by family members, though authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the five persons who perished in the storm.
The other three are Patricia Penelton, who passed away when the roof of Centennial Christian Church fell during the storm; Juan Baltazar, a 48-year-old food truck entrepreneur, and Delois Holmes, a 70-year-old great-grandmother.
