May 1, 1937 – February 14, 2021
James Raymond Tyson, 83, passed away on Sunday, February 14th in Cocoa Beach, FL.
James was preceded in death by his son, James, and eight brothers/sisters (Ed, Al, Margaret, Wally, Roma Jean, Joyce, Betty, Lloyd). He is survived by two sons, Carl (Peggy) Shultz, Wayne Tyson, and one daughter, Kelly (Tony) Walker.
He is also survived by his brother, Charlie, and four grandchildren: Trinity and Mia Walker (Kelly’s children) and Dawn and Amy (Carl’s children); four great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
James was born the ninth of ten children in the small town of Wayne, Ohio. His father died at an early age and he was raised by his mother and grandmother. At age 17, he joined the U.S. Airforce and worked as an air traffic controller, later becoming an instructor, and one of only a few certified in multiple Air Traffic Control systems. James retired from the U.S. Airforce after 23 years of service.
Following retirement from the Air Force, James became an accomplished insurance agent (“Mutual of Omaha,” Texas) earning multiple national corporate awards. It was said “he could sell ice cubes in Alaska.” Throughout his career, he also owned multiple businesses in the food/beverage industry. James then moved to Florida to be close to family.
James was outgoing and made friends easily, always relishing socialization with family and friends. He devoted much of his time in later years enjoying time spent with his beloved granddaughters, Trinity and Mia, in Cocoa Beach.
James enjoyed going to the annual Tyson reunions in Ohio. He loved playing billiards and basketball and was deeply passionate about his Pittsburg Steelers. Even with declining health, he enjoyed watching Tampa Bay win the “Super Bowl” earlier this month.
He was well known for his quick wit and sense of humor. Living life to its fullest, he did things in his own unique way, never losing sight of the importance of family and friends. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed, but his memories will always fill our hearts.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 27, 2021, at 11:00 AM, at the Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home, Merritt Island, Florida with Rev. Jerry Hanson officiating. His remains will be buried in the spring near his deceased parents in Mount Zion Cemetery in Wayne, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to Brevard Alzheimer's Foundation in his name. Due to COVID-19, there will be no reception following the service.
Livestreaming of the service will be available at https://www.facebook.com/Wylie-Baxley-Merritt-Island-Funeral-Home-151802281528248, or by going to www.WylieBaxleyMerrittIsland.com and under the services section of James' story, click 'Join Livestream'.
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