Robert Tyler

Robert “Bob” Tyler, age 79, of Marion, Illinois, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, embraced by the love of his family. He was born on February 15, 1946, in Centralia, Illinois, to Jack and Freda Tyler. A man of deep Christian faith, Bob committed his life to Christ and walked faithfully with the Lord all his days. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Bob proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, earning the Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, and other commendations. He went on to work as an accountant for the Illinois Department of Transportation for 30+ years, retiring with a reputation for diligence, integrity, and professionalism. Bob had a quiet but steady faith and a heart for evangelism and prison ministry, including outreach through 15th Street Baptist Church in East St. Louis. Sharing the hope of Christ was central to his life, and he lived that mission with humility and sincerity. He was also a lifelong Cubs and Bears fan, cheering on his teams every season. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Becky (Cantrell), and his second wife, Mary (Jones). His children survive him: Jay (Lorri) Tyler, Ann (Kyle) Booth, and Martin (Marcela) Tyler; grandchildren: Lynsay Conner, Samantha (Cody) Flora, Cassidy Tyler, Brittany Hill, Braden (Melissa) Hill, Brant Hill, and Jack Tyler; and great-grandchildren: Leah, Cienna, Otis, Archer, Madison, Robert, Lydia, Lainey, and Clara; all of whom he adored. He also leaves behind extended family and many dear friends who were touched by his gentle spirit and unwavering faith. A Service Celebrating his life will be held on June 21st at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Marion, Illinois, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A private burial for immediate family will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in his honor (www.woundedwarriorproject.org) and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is Honored to be of Service to Bob’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the Family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page. Bob’s life reflected a deep, personal commitment to God. He prayed with sincerity, studied Scripture daily, and lived out the love of Christ in every aspect of his life. Never one to seek attention, his faith was evident through his actions. Those who knew him saw in him one of the most faithful believers they’d ever encountered, a steady, humble example of godly character. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23

Robert Tyler

February 15, 1946 - June 5, 2025