Philip E. Tieman

Phil earned his Bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University, his Master's degree from the University of Cincinnati, and proudly returned to his Buckeye roots to complete his PhD in Educational Administration at The Ohio State University in 1968. He began his career as a history teacher at Norwood High School in Ohio from 1956-1961. While teaching, he completed his Master's degree and soon became principal of Lexington Junior High School in Ohio from 1961-1965. Discovering his true calling in school administration, Phil became superintendent of the New Philadelphia School District.

Over his distinguished career, he went on to serve as superintendent in Basking Ridge, NJ; Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda, NY; and Syosset, NY, before returning to Ohio as superintendent of Bexley City Schools in Bexley, Ohio—an experience he often shared was the highlight of his career. He later taught graduate courses in the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Dayton from 2001 until his full retirement in 2011.

In addition to his parents, Phil was predeceased by his first wife, Susanne Rummel Tieman, who died on May 26, 2003, and his brother, Robert Louis Tieman. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan Gennuso Djakov Tieman, whom he married on September 13, 2008; his son Gregory Tieman (Kim); daughter Catherine Tieman (Kevin Wilks); stepdaughter Lyen Djakov (Ray Phillips); grandson Shane Tieman (Jillian); step-granddaughters Anya Phillips and Alex Phillips; sister Linda Tieman; great-grandchildren Sean Tieman and Allison Tieman; niece Jeanne McCool (Jonathan); and great-niece Fiona McCool.

Phil took great joy in his professional community and was an active member of AASA, The School Superintendents Association. He was a parishioner at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, where he and Joan were married. He cherished time with his step-granddaughters and delighted in encouraging their love of dance, helping enroll them in classes at BalletMet Dance Academy. His connection to BalletMet continued as he proudly served two terms on the Board of Trustees and remained a devoted supporter of the arts in Columbus. Phil was also deeply committed to community well-being and served as an active member of the Board of Directors for North Central Mental Health in Columbus, Ohio, for over 20 years.

An avid reader of non-fiction, Phil had an astounding ability to recall details from every book he read, making him a wonderfully engaging conversationalist. He also loved to travel, exploring destinations across the United States and around the world, and especially enjoyed his annual trips to St. Maarten—a tradition he looked forward to every year. Later in lite, he became a passionate dog lover, doting on Zak and Fritz. A lifelong Ohio State Buckeye, Phil attended countless games at Ohio Stadium and loved rewatching memorable victories.

Phil will be remembered for his wisdom, dedication to education, love of family, and the kindness and steadiness he shared with everyone who knew him. His legacy lives on in the countless students, educators, friends, and loved ones whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Phi's honor can be made to Mount Carmel Foundation Hospice and Bereavement Services.

Service details will be announced soon.