Deacon Samuel S. Tyler

Deacon Samuel S. Tyler a man known for his strength and uprightness passed on from this life into the hands of God peacefully, January 21, 2025. He was the fourth son of the late Reverend Melvin Tyler, Sr., and Louise Bradley Tyler, born on March 27, 1939. He grew up and received his education in Twin Oaks, Pennsylvania, graduating in 1957 from the Chichester School District. During his high school years, he was an outstanding athlete excelling in Football and Baseball, with the latter becoming his unsurpassed favorite. His baseball talent led him into the world of Semi Professional Baseball for several seasons. Deacon Tyler was a dedicated member of the Mount Olive Baptist Church of Linwood, Pennsylvania, with sixty plus years of membership, under the tutelage of his father the late Reverend Melvin Tyler, Sr., Reverend Dr. Milton T. Smith, Sr. and Bishop Anton Hackett, Sr. On November 18, 1972, after serving several years on the Trustee Board, under the pastorate of Reverend Dr. Smith, Sr. he was ordained a Deacon at Mount Olive Baptist Church. Under the guidance of the late Deacon Raymond Ross; Deacon Tyler began training to serve as Deacon Board Chairman, upon the retirement of Board Chairman Ross. Upon his installation, Deacon Tyler became the youngest Deacon Board Chairman of Chester and Vicinity. Deacon Tyler also credited the late, Deacon Walter Carroll for instilling in him the understanding and responsibility of the title and position of a Deacon. At the time of his homegoing, Deacon Tyler held the title Senior Deacon of the Mount Olive Baptist Church, which distinguished him as the Deacon with the most years of Service. Deacon Tyler was the former Superintendent of the Sunday School Ministry; President of the Mount Olive Male Chorus; an active member of the Senior Choir, Ross Carroll Ensemble, Inspirational Chorus, Missionary Ministry, Helping Hand Ministry, Pastor’s Aide and Culinary Ministry. Sam, as he is affectionately called by family and friends, retired from the Glen Mills Boys Educational Facility, Glen Mills PA in April 2017 after twenty-seven years of service. Before his employment with Glen Mills, he was employed for thirty-three years with Trainer Appliance, Trainer PA. Sam was also preceded in death by eight brothers: Alonzo C. Tyler, Sr. (1990); Malachi Cunningham (1997); McKinley W. Tyler, Sr. (1998); Lonnie I. Tyler (2000); Melvin Tyler, Jr. (2000); William “Bill” Tyler (2000); Isreal “Rocky” Tyler (2024); Harry “Butchie” Tyler (2025). Four sisters: Hazelene “Hazel” Barksdale (1987); Louise Bishop (2007); Amy Jean Campbell (2016); Doris D. Peterson (2021). One grandson, Kyle J. Graves. Sam instilled in his family to pray and believe that there is no situation too big for God and to walk by faith. He was beyond doubt committed to God and Family. Once he claimed you as family it was for life, he was always a soft confidential place to land, with a listening ear and helping hand. He is survived by his wife of sixty-five years Dolores D. Johnson Tyler; two daughters Colleen F. Myers (Jeffrey); Carla M. Graves (Robert) of Chester PA. One son Curtis S. Tyler (Angel) of Norfolk, VA. Two sisters Zelma Harper (Sherman), Charlotte Queen, of Chester PA. His memory will also be cherished by four grandchildren, Shanika V., and Robert S. of Chester PA. Jeffrey (Shontia) of Coatesville PA and Kelly of Virginia. Six great-grandchildren; two great-great children. His brother-in-law and good friend, Jacob “Junnie” Johnson (Vivian); his nephew and on call private barber, Mark Johnson. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and good friends. His three great loves in life were his service to the Lord, Love and Protection of Family and BASEBALL. It can truly be said that the words of the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” embodies who Samuel S. Tyler was.

Deacon Samuel S. Tyler

March 27, 1939 - January 21, 2025