Dean Tyler

Obituary of Dean Tyler

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It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn for Gerald Dean Tyler of Harrodsburg, Kentucky who passed from this life on August 12, 2025 at the age of 83 years. "Dean" was born in Mt. Washington, Kentucky on August 28, 1941 to Ama Lee (Grant) and Lemuel W. "Bill" Tyler. When he was just 5 years old, he lost his mother – a loss that left a lasting mark on his heart. Growing up without the love and comfort of a parent wasn't easy, but he always had his siblings. They became each other's support and strength through their entire lives. In adulthood he was able to give love and care to his daughters and son, and they knew they were loved. His hugs were strong and unforgettable, big squeezes that nearly took the breath out of you. Dean was known for his tireless work ethic. He was more than a hard worker. He believed in hard work the way others believe in religion-fiercely, deeply, and without compromise. Whether it was farming or under the hood of a car, he found joy and purpose in hands-on work. He had a gift for fixing vehicles as well as for cutting tobacco. He would often compete with his brothers and nephews in cutting tobacco and he was always the victor. He was a man who believed that a good day was one spent working with his hands-and he had the callouses, and even a few missing fingers, to prove it. Dean retired from Navistar (formerly International Harvester) where he would often volunteer for the harder jobs. Outside of work he tended a huge garden, a tobacco base and was constantly helping others with all manners of farming jobs. Even after retiring, he didn't slow down. He turned his energy toward helping others, often volunteering to mow lawns and help neighbors, sometimes without asking. He would show up with a rake or chainsaw in hand and get to work. He was told "You're going to get in trouble" but he never did. People appreciated him. He made friends wherever he went, and he never met a stranger. He was a man who led by example – quietly, humbly, and with calloused hands that told the story of a life of hard work. A life well-lived and well-loved. In his memory, the family asks that you do something he would've loved: wake up early, put your boots on, and get to work. His absence will be deeply felt by his wife of 42 years, Loretta Gay Cheatham Tyler, his daughters, Karen Tyler (Jaime Mendoza), Donna Tyler (Cody Peterson), Judy Tyler (Howie Gano), Melinda McElroy (John), his brother, Tommy Tyler (Bonnie) and his cousin Patty Nation (Gilbert). He will be missed by his grandchildren Libby Warner (Jason), Annie O'Dell (Eli James), Ben O'Dell, Brandy Strange, Will O'Dell (Sandi Brown), Tony Fairchild (Elena), Katie Dennison (Aaron Devore), Emily McElroy (Chris Reid), Andrew McElroy (Kate)and Jacob Buchanan (Hannah Napier). He also leaves 9 great-grandchildren Lucas (Caeleigh), Conner, Madelyn, Aubrey, Emma, Hunter, Lucy, Joshua and Jason. And Freya, his great-great-granddaughter. Not forgotten are the many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Beloved family members that passed before him include his son Jason Buchanan, his siblings Annetta Alcorn, Lemuel "Sonny" Tyler, Alberta Prather, Paul Tyler and Irma McDaniel, as well as his aunt and uncle, Willie Mae (Billie) Grant Simmons and Dewey Simmons. A celebration of life will be held at Ransdell Funeral Chapel, 345 E. Lexington St. Harrodsburg, Kentucky, 40330 on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 11 AM – 2 PM. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to share a story or thought about Dean with loved ones. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family on Dean's Tribute Wall at www.ransdellfuneralchapel.com.