Joseph E. Tyer

Joseph "Jay" Tyer passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025. He is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Patricia, and their children: Christine, Cathleen, Jeffrey, Philip and sons and daughter in laws Al, Brad, and Trish. Jay's legacy continues through his many grandchildren-Alexa, Timmy, Sarah, Jacob, Tara, Taylor, David, Sydney, Christopher, Ryan, Joseph, and Leah-and great-grandchildren: JT, Rudy, Sonny, Kendall, Lily, Amelia, Finn, Jack, Lucia, George, Dakota, and Wells.
Jay was born on October 5, 1942, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. In 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, beginning a lifelong partnership. Shortly after their marriage, Jay enlisted in the US Navy, where his first assignment took him to Norfolk Navy Base as a helicopter mechanic.
Recognized for his abilities, Jay was selected for the Naval Enlisted Scientific Education Program (NESEP). This opportunity allowed him to attend the University of Nebraska while he and Pat raised their four young children. After completing his studies, Jay was commissioned as an Ensign, attended flight school, and was subsequently assigned to VA-66, an A-7 Corsair squadron aboard the USS Independence. Jay dedicated 20 years to active and reserve duty in the Navy and retired with the rank of Commander.
In his civilian life, Jay began working for Signode, selling steel-strapping tools out of the trunk of his car. Through hard work and determination, he rose to the role of President at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), where he oversaw multiple companies on a global scale.
Jay fully embodied the "work hard, play hard" philosophy. He enjoyed skiing, biking, hiking, golfing, swimming, and racing dirt bikes. Renowned for his vibrant personality, Jay was the life of every gathering and formed countless close friendships throughout his life. He treated everyone he met with warmth and kindness, leading a purposeful and richly fulfilling life.
Throughout their busy lives, Jay and Pat moved frequently-at least 15 times-as their family grew and spread across the United States and occasionally abroad. Nevertheless, they regularly hosted family reunions, bringing together all their children and grandchildren. These gatherings were filled with joy and created cherished, lasting memories.
In 2019, Jay and Pat returned to Virginia Beach, settling in the Atlantic Shores community. More recently, Jay received memory care at Bickford Senior Care. Jay's memorial service will be held on January 6, 2026 at 11:00am at the Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home 1264 N. Great Neck Road, Virginia Beach VA 23454, and reception to follow at Broad Bay Country Club, 2120 Lords Landing, Virginia Beach, VA 23454.