Legendary and much-loved Columbys poet Is Said passed away February 6, 2023

Author, mentor, community-based activist, and educator, Is Said provided sage leadership on a national level as well as in the greater Columbus arts community. He conceived, staged, wrote, and performed unique multimedia arts events, combining visionary, historical-based poetry or prose synergistically with high-energy African music and dance.

Founding the Columbus-based “Advance Party” in 1973, he brought to life a powerful, spiritual vision to inspire, inform, and empower diverse audiences. With an inclusive multicultural approach, Is Said served formally and informally as consultant to many arts agencies and individuals, seeking his wisdom born of a lifetime of community experience.

He shared his expertise with school-age or homeless youth, growing artists, and senior citizens, conducting educational workshops that foster literacy, creativity, performance skills, and, most importantly, self-awareness. Is Said received the King Arts Complex 24th Annual Legends and Legacies Award in 2011. Everybody will be equal after the bomb.

(reprinted and revised from previous Free Press article)

For all those hoping to celebrate the life of our dear Charles Is Said Lyons, below is the Service information:

VIEWING:
Wednesday, February 15, 2023 1pm – 4pm
Marlan Gary Funeral Home, Chapel of Peace
5456 E Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43232

MEMORIAL SERVICE:
Thursday, February 16, 2023 1pm – 3pm
Lincoln Theatre - Ballroom – Enter Through Red Doors on 2nd Floor
769 E Long Street, Columbus, OH 43203

REPASS SERVICE:
Thursday, February 16, 2023 @ 4pm – 6pm
King Arts Complex
835 Mt Vernon Avenue, Columbus, OH 43203

BURIAL:
Friday, February 17, 2023 @ 10am
Leaving from: Marlan Gary Funeral Home, Chapel of Peace @10am
5456 E Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Going to: Evergreen Burial Park
1401 Woodland Avenue, Columbus, OH 43219