JULIAN Beaumont Lyle, affectionately known as Dad, Pops and Jules, was a true community pioneer whose vision and energy helped shape Athlone Park and Amanzimtoti for nearly six decades.

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Born in Denotta, Johannesburg, on December 20, 1938, Julian moved to Athlone Park in 1967. From the outset, he looked for ways to build and uplift his community. Recognising the need for civic engagement, he became a founding member of Round Table 85. In the 1970s, he wrote and produced a lively melodrama staged at the civic centre to raise funds for Athlone Park Primary School’s much-needed swimming pool. The cast included several South Coast SUN staff members, and the production was so successful that a single evening raised enough to build the pool.

Lyle went on to found Sherwood Garden Services, the first garden refuse and verge-cutting service in the area, servicing homes and major industrial sites. He planted the bougainvillaea along the Twini Hill bank on the N2 southbound, a splash of colour that became a local landmark for years. He also initiated go-kart racing events at Hyperama in Prospecton, creating memorable annual gatherings for families.

In the 1970s, Lyle established the first horse riding school in the area on Adams Road, transforming old farm structures into what became known as Toti Ranch. His innovative spirit and determination turned bush and brick ruins into thriving stables and arenas. Some of the original telephone pole boundaries still stand today. At the same time, he was also running a banana farm, selling its produce from his truck on Beach Road.

Later in life, his passion turned to the ocean. A familiar figure on the Amanzimtoti Main Beach, Lyle became an honorary voluntary lifesaver, earning medals in masters competitions and sharing his love of the sea with family and friends. Above all, Lyle was a giver, and he found joy in creating opportunities and bringing people together.

He is survived by his partner, Marion Smith, daughter Kerry, son John, daughter-in-law Natasha, and grandchildren Mackenzie and Bailey.

His life celebration will be held at the Athlone Park Primary School on February 21 from 14:00.

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