Frank W. Tye

It is with great sorrow that the family of F. Wade Tye, age 90, announces his passing on November 1, 2014 at the McGraw Community Hospice. He is at last at peace and free from pain. Wade was born on October 21, 1924, in Americus, Georgia to Frank Tye and Marguerite Watkins Tye. He is survived by his loving wife Darlene, with whom he shared 68 years filled with adventure, humor, happiness all of which firmly guaranteed that their marriage was blessed and indestructible.

He leaves behind son Steve (Sharon) Tye and their 2 children Sara and Shelby; a daughter Robin (Kevin) O’Neill and their daughter Emily, one sister Carolyn Eudy of Atlanta and her children Frank and Barbara; two sister’s in-law Dixie Kenyon of Virginia and Susannah Carson of California as well as many nieces and nephews. Wade served in World War II as a Navy aviation radioman/gunner flying in PB4Y2 aircraft. Following his discharge, Wade attended and graduated from the University of Florida College of Architecture and Arts in 1955. He worked for local firm RS&H for many years and established a partnership, Tye & Mitchell, Architects with friend Jim Mitchell in Sanford and Deland, Florida.

This partnership was dedicated to the design and building of various churches, mental health facilities, residences and businesses. They were nationally recognized in Architectural Digest for their design of a large mental health project in central Florida. Also during Wade’s career he was involved in the National Park System, designing welcome stations, visitor facilities, museums, etc. across Florida and out west. One of his last major projects was the development of the Grand Canyon South Rim visitor’s center which included dormitories for park workers, museum display areas, cafeteria, etc.

At one time Wade estimated that he Darlene had driven coast to coast 50 times visiting National Parks, National Monuments and photographing albums of pictures displaying our wonderful heritage. Thus, he was frequently sought after to prepare itineraries and driving routes of friends making similar trips. Wade was recognized as a man of great wisdom, patience and compassion and as such he mentored young architects, designers and planners and those he knew and loved as they requested guidance when faced with life and career decisions. His life was influenced by a reflection written by William Penn: “I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.” There will be no funeral, as Wade desires to be interred with honors among his WWII brethren at the Jacksonville National Cemetery.

That ceremony is planned for Monday, November 24, 2014 at 12:30 p.m. The family requests no flowers but encourages contributions to Wounded Warriors or Hospice. Wade will be cremated with a portion of his ashes to be scattered over his favorite natural parks at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of HARDAGE-GIDDENS FUNERAL HOME, 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, FL. Condolences may be shared at www.hardage-giddensbeacheschapel.com. The family is deeply indebted to the caring staff of Mayo, especially Dr. Igel, Dr. Hutchinson and the understanding and supportive help of all at the McGraw Hospice Center.