
Chris Tyra passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 7, 1951, in Columbus, GA, Chris grew up in Ft. Mitchell, AL, at the 4 Boys Ranch. He was a graduate of Chavala High School and remained deeply rooted in the close-knit family that shaped his early life.
A natural athlete with a commanding presence, Chris played football for Troy University and spent time on the freshman Alabama team under Bear Bryant. For Chris, sports were never just about the win; he cherished the fellowship of his teammates far more than the competition. He was a man of immense strength but even greater kindness, always there to help a friend with a heart that was as large as his stature.
In 1972, Chris married his beloved wife, Lee. Their 53 year marriage was the cornerstone of his life, and he spent every day adoring her. Chris carried his love for people into his career as a financial planner and life insurance professional. He refused to retire because he genuinely enjoyed the relationships he built with his customers, treating each one with the care of a friend.
Chris was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward and Mary Jo Tyra, and his brother, Jim. His legacy of kindness lives on through his wife, Lee; his sons, Christopher (Candy) and Clint (Alex); and his cherished grandchildren, Lucy, John Trotman, Davison, and Mary Leslie. He is also survived by his brothers, Bobby and Lanny (Rachel), as well as nieces, nephews, and Jones and Tyra cousins.
A celebration of Chris’s life will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday, April 17, 2026 at St Paul Church. Visitation will precede the service at 10:30 AM at St. Paul Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Chris's memory to St. Paul Church, the American Cancer Society, or Columbus Hospice House.
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