Lonnie Ray Tyler

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Lonnie Ray Tyler was born on December 6, 1947 in Springfield, Tennessee to William Tyler and Pearl Ester Tyler. He departed this life peacefully on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Nashville, TN.

Lonnie was employed at Meharry Medical College, Baptist Hospital, and St. Thomas Hospital during his career. He enjoyed watching sports and cherished time spent with his grandchildren. Known for his friendly spirit, he never met a stranger and loved to share stories of his service as a U.S. Army paratrooper in Vietnam. During his military career he received the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, and a parachute badge. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother, Pearl Tyler; father William Tyler; stepfather Charles Smith; brothers William and Charles Tyler; and sisters, Lucile McLauren and Helen Smith.

Lonnie leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife of 54 years Mildred Tyler; son, Kenny Tyler (devoted daughter-in-law Carla); grandchildren, Brandon (Kaiesha), Jasmine (Jonathan), Jada, Ray, Ja’Ray; great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Paris, Lincoln, Summer, Carter, sister, Sue Kendricks, Russellville, Kentucky, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friend.