Roderick Beresford Tyson

Roderick Beresford Tyson was born on the island of Nevis in the West Indies—the sixth of nine children born to Selvin Tyson and Nora Pondt Tyson. He grew up in a close-knit, loving family, grounded in strong moral convictions.

As a young boy, Roderick was stricken with a catastrophic illness that left him unable to walk. He was hospitalized for over a year. Through strength and perseverance, he triumphed over this affliction.

He received his formal education at the public school in St. Thomas Parish, located in Lowlands. Upon completing his schooling, he gained employment at Penney’s Estate, not far from his childhood home. Before long, he emigrated to St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands, where he found work at Merchants Market—a position he held for several years. He later joined Hunter Foods, continuing his career in the commercial grocery distribution industry.

In the early 1980s, Roderick transferred to the Florida headquarters of Merchants Market, where he remained employed until his retirement.

He met and married the love of his life, Jacqueline Sadio Tyson. Their union, which lasted 48 years until his passing, was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Aquannette (Ginger) and Alicia.

Roderick had a profound love for music. His vast and evolving music collection kept pace with technology—ranging from 45s, LPs, and 8-tracks to CDs and digital media. Later in life, Roderick became an accomplished DJ, known affectionately as Sir Roderick. Through this passion, he brought joy, music, and entertainment to thousands over the years.

He was a selfless individual with a kind and generous spirit, always willing to be of service to others. Roderick never had an unkind word for anyone. A gentle soul, he left us unexpectedly—and certainly much too soon. His passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

We are all deeply grateful to have had him in our lives.

Rest in peace, Sir Roderick B. Tyson.