Benny R. Tyler

Benny Ray Tyler, 80, went home to his Lord and Savior on August 17, 2015 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease with his loving family by his side. Benny was dearly loved and known for his fun-loving personality, his protective love of his family and his character. He always put his Lord and his family first and did not forget his love of either throughout his struggles.

Benny was born October 11, 1934 in Springhill, LA as the fourth son to George and Irene Tyler. He grew up modestly which contributed to his drive to work hard. Benny believed in education. This drive to be educated and succeed was made possible by his abilities on the football field of Springhilll High and then on to Tulane University on a full scholarship. In 1960, he signed to the Patriots, but his promising career came to a halt due to a serious leg injury. He began his marketing career at Texaco shortly thereafter and retired after 34 years. It was Texaco that brought him to Memphis where he met and married the love of his life, Gail Gurner Tyler.

Benny leaves his wife, Gail, his three daughters, Jane Tyler, Allison Dawson (Bob) and Betsy Hale (Philip) and seven grandchildren, Rachael and Connor Dawson and Tyler, Kaitlin, Emily, Will and Ben Hale who will miss their Paw Paw.

The family would like to thank the staff at Page Robbins and Baptist Reynolds Hospice House for their care of Benny and their support and comfort to the family. Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 19th, with the funeral following at 2:00 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Ave