Tom Lyons (1953-1973): A Timeless Legacy Remembered

Tom Lyons, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Connections, Inc., passed away at his home in Overland Park, Kansas on October 17, 2023 at the age of 70.  He was surrounded by his wife of over 50 years, Debbie, his sons, Chad and Kyle, and their families.

Tom’s work ethic was apparent to all who knew him.  He proudly displayed the value of hard work and the importance of genuine relationships in all partnerships and projects. His natural passions for family time, travel, outdoor experiences and sports paved the way to an entrepreneurial career built on an eye for assessing a need and envisioning a solution. Simply put, Tom had the sharp ability to notice opportunity and the vigorous courage to do something about it. 

Tom’s drive and determination took him from a door-to-door salesman in 1975 to co-founder and CEO of Global Connections Inc. (GCI), a leading leisure travel company.GCI was more than a company to him; it was a business of family members, friends and partners with a shared goal and a commitment to each other. Tom’s generosity touched many of his employees, as his heart for their successes often exceeded the common boundaries of a CEO. Tom’s morning office rounds began with a coffee cup in hand, armed with his new favorite joke for all.

Related: Who is Global Connections, Inc. (GCI)?

In addition to GCI, Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found several other companies, including Global Sports International, TITLE Boxing Club and Franworth. Always excited for the next great investment, he was also involved in the development of several resorts and restaurant concepts. Tom was honored as Kansas Businessman of the Year, Women’s Business Association’s Man of the Year and received Cadillac’s Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Tom’s commitment to supporting his employees and communities made him a truly great leader.  Tom was actively involved in contributing to fundraising efforts, vacation condominiums to charity auctions throughout the United States, management coaching in an array of organizations, including Guns N Hoses, Project Walk, Hope House, KIVA, The Don Bosco Centers, NextStep Kansas City and the Midwest Innocence Project, to name a few.  Tom was an inspiration to all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.

Tom cherished time with his family and loved bringing everyone together for a meal, a vacation and always a laugh. 

Related: Global Connections, Inc.’s Global Perks Plus Engages Employees and Boosts Customer Loyalty