Mary Jane Olney Tyler, a member of an early Anadarko, OK family has passed, July 26, 2019 in Rogers AR. She was the daughter of William O. Olney and Mabel Florence Davis. Mrs. Tyler was born in Kansas City MO on June 2, 1925. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Wilber; and husband, Henry Hart Tyler.
Her childhood was enriched by a loving and caring family, teachers, and community. At an early age, she began music study which influenced her whole life and provided a calling she treasured.
She was a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and shortly after in 1948, she married Henry Hart Tyler, a Disciples of Christ minister. They walked through life together in gratitude and joy as they served churches in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri.
In the 1960’s they lived in Fort Smith and Henry became senior minister of First Christian Church. Mary Jane’s musical background was called into service. She would perform as the organist and as English Handbell choir director.
Mrs. Tyler was a lifelong learner and volunteer in many embodiments of the church and community. Peace, justice, and human rights occupied her mind, heart and physical being. She enjoyed travel with summers at Chautauqua, Elder Hostels, studying in Oxford, Salamanca, Spain, and Jerusalem. She was a woman of strength, integrity, intelligence, kindness, and grace.
She is survived by her son, Stephen D. Tyler; daughter-in-law, Karen Kremers Tyler; grandson, Samuel Tyler in Bentonville AR; and nephews, Henry and Mark Tyler in Oklahoma.
Funeral service for Mrs. Tyler will be held at First Christian Church in Fort Smith on Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at 10:00AM. A private family committal will be at the U.S. National Cemetery in Fort Smith with Rev. Jarrett Banks officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith.
The family will visit with friends at the church following the funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to her church, First Christian Church, 3501 Rogers Avenue, Fort Smith AR 72903.
To leave an online tribute, visit: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com
