James A. Tyler, 77, of Owens Cross Roads, AL passed away on July 18 while surrounded by those who loved him.
Jim was born in Fort Wayne, IN, and graduated from Marshall High School in his beloved home town of Marshall, IL. After completing coursework at Indiana University, Jim accepted a position with The Associates which eventually became GE Capital. Jim was awarded the national title of Regional Manager of the Year in 1982. Jim retired from GE Capital in 2008 after a successful 46 year career.
Jim deeply valued relationships, possessed an exceptionally generous spirit, and was known as an independent man with an irreverent sense of humor.
Throughout his career, Jim built long-term relationships with business clients, many of whom went on to build successful businesses. Several of these clients became life-long friends who continued to value Jim’s friendship long after business concerns had faded. Jim also donated hundreds of hours of his time to organizations such as Big Brother Big Sister and the 305 8th Street home for disabled adults. Jim continued his relationships with his little brother and many of his 305 buddies until his illness limited his activities.
Jim married Rebecca Johnson Tandy in 1988. They celebrated their 30 year anniversary in Paris in 2018. Jim also greatly enjoyed visiting Cuba in 2017, which was a highlight of his lifetime interests in politics, history, and cars.
Jim’s and Rebecca’s extended family includes seven children and eighteen (and counting) grand- and great grandchildren. Although Jim grew up, in many ways he never grew old. Jim adored his family and had a gift of connecting with his kids whether they were 1 year-old or 60 years-old. Jim will forever bring a smile to the faces of his family members as each one has no shortage of funny memories about Papa Jim and his sense of humor.
Jim is survived by Rebecca and their children and grandchildren. Jim also has three brothers who reside in Florida.
Visitation will be Saturday 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at New Hope Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow Saturday at 11:00 AM.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the 305 8th Street organization in Huntsville, AL. ( www.3058thstreet.org )
