Frederick Benjamin Tyler, Jr., 77, passed away peacefully with his wife, Debra Jordan Tyler, by his side on July 24, 2024, in Crestview, Florida. Born on December 6, 1946, in Tallahassee, Florida, Ben was the son of the late Fred B. and Elizabeth W. Tyler. His late grandparents from Carrabelle, Florida, include W. T. and Maude Wathen and his late grandparents from Melrose, Florida, include H. W. and Bess Collier Tyler.
A simple obituary cannot fully encapsulate Ben’s life, but it serves as a tribute to a man who was greatly loved. Ben’s life story is a vivid picture of dedication and service, leaving others inspired by his unwavering kindness. Ben entered the workforce during high school delivering newspapers for the St. Pete Times, Casseaux Appliances and as a Methodist Youth Camp Counselor. After graduation, he joined the US Navy and attended Corp School at the Great Lakes Navy Training Hospital. Ben served as a Navy Corpsman at the Pensacola NAS Hospital until his discharge. He then returned to Tallahassee and began a career with the Southeastern Telephone Company. Ben and Debra together then moved to San Francisco, California and worked for Standard Fisheries. When they returned to Florida, Ben realized his dream of becoming an OTR Driver. Ben then retired to enjoy life. Ben’s favorite activities in retirement included hunting, fishing and reading voraciously.
Ben is survived by his wife, Debra Jordan Tyler; his daughters, Dawn Jeanette and Katherine Ann, and stepdaughter, Jonni Brooks Nash. He is also survived by a sister, Carol Tyler Bowers. There are numerous family members throughout the country.
Ben was a considerate and thoughtful man, known for his gentle spirit and generous nature. He was also the one you could count on to tell a joke at any time when a laugh was needed! He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. Ben’s legacy of kindness, simple, unassuming nature will forever have an impact on the lives of those he touched.
A celebration of Ben’s life will be held at a later date.
Jennifer
July 31, 2024, 8:27 pm
Ben was an amazing man! So caring and soft spoken yet showed so much strength and wisdom. Jonni and I looked to him and momma Deb for advice in our “crazy” teenage years. Words cannot express the impact he had on our lives. Ben will be missed by so many who loved him!
Mark and Wilma Salisbury
July 31, 2024, 8:34 pm
There has never been a kinder added ‘brother’ than Ben Tyler. Your wisdom, quiet courage and silly jokes will never be forgotten.
Fly high, Ben
Linda d jernigan
July 31, 2024, 9:14 pm
I love him and debbie so much ,i learned a lot from him as well .i will miss his beautiful smile and infections personality, there is so many things and feeling that i have and feel for him .there are not enough words to explain. I just want too say i hold him in my heart as i do debbie.love you ben ,i hope 💙 ❤️ that you know how much you are loved.
Rebecca Malseed
July 31, 2024, 9:39 pm
My heart and prayers are with you. I hope you find comfort in the memories and special moments you made together. I’m glad I got to meet him.
Love and prayers to you and your family.
Rebecca Malseed
Connie Karr
August 1, 2024, 6:31 pm
Ben was one of the kindest and sweetest men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was such a delightful person to be around, always cracking you up with a joke. He had a huge storehouse of jokes. Ben adored his wife, Debra, and she adored him. They were the perfect couple. He was such a gentleman and he will be truly missed. Rest in peace my friend…love you Ben!
Patsy Nathey
August 1, 2024, 11:55 pm
Ben was a very nice person. You
could not help but love him. Loved his humor. Such a perfect match for
Debra. He will be missed by so many. He is at perfect peace now.