Wallace Eugene Tyson Jr.

Wallace “Wally” Eugene Tyson Jr., age 73, of Palm Harbor, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Bay Pines VA Hospital in St. Petersburg. Born on May 18, 1952, in Tarboro, North Carolina, he was the proud son of the late Wallace Eugene Tyson Sr. and Dorothy Sue (Nee’ Howard) Tyson.

In 1958, Wally’s family relocated to Clearwater from North Carolina. He graduated from Clearwater High School (CHS), Class of 1970. There he was class President, played baseball as a returning letterman, and other sports.

A true American patriot, Wally devoted his life to serving his country and supporting those who wore the uniform. He enlisted in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class, where he served with unwavering honor, courage, and commitment. Throughout his military career, Wally embodied the core values of duty, respect, and selfless service—principles that continued to guide his life long after his time in uniform.

Following his honorable service, Wally pursued higher education and earned his degree in business from Methodist College in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in 1989. His passion for supporting fellow veterans led him to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization, where he served with distinction. As a dedicated DAV advocate and past National Commander (2010-2011). Wally worked tirelessly to ensure that veterans received the care, benefits, and respect they deserved. His voice was steadfast, his heart was generous, and his mission was always clear: to serve those who had served.

Wally’s legacy of service extended beyond the battlefield and the boardroom. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—known for his sharp/dry wit, kind soul, and steadfast loyalty. He cherished time with his family and was most proud of the generations that followed him, whom he guided with love and strength.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan K. (Nee’ Loeser) Tyson; his four-legged fur baby/ “homeowner”, Ragan; son, John Tyson; cherished grandchildren, Kaden Eugene Tyson and Julian King Tyson; loving sisters, Becky (Edward) McIntosh, Terry (Bob) Repp, and Deanna Tyson; and brother-in-law, Mike (Jane Nee’ Burgess) Loeser. He is also remembered by many extended family members, comrades-in-arms, and loyal friends who will forever honor his memory.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at James A. Haley, Bay Pines VA hospital, TLC Home Care, Bayata Home Health for their gentle loving care of Wally.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home, 2853 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, Florida 33759.

A funeral service will take place at 3:00 PM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the same location. Guests are invited to arrive one hour prior to the service for visitation.

Wally will be laid to rest at Lebanon Church Cemetery in Furman, South Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made in Wally’s name to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) – Tampa Bay.

Wally lived a life of service, honor, and profound patriotism. His legacy will endure in the lives of those he inspired and the country he so proudly served.

“Go Tar Heels”!