JoAnn Drucilla Tyler
Jo Ann D. Phillips Tyler was born on January 12, 1942, in Boston, Massachusetts, to the late Kenneth Phillips and Gertrude Booker Phillips. Raised with the values of faith, service, perseverance, and love, she attended Hervey Elementary and Brooks Schools and graduated from Medford High School in 1960. She later graduated from Bay State Academy, where she studied for a career in the travel industry.
In 1960, Jo Ann met the love of her life, Charles P. Tyler, affectionately known as “Charlie.” They married in 1962 and built a loving home centered on faith and family. Their union was blessed with two children, Deanna and Charles Tyler, Jr. (“Chucky”). They shared 32 years of marriage before his untimely passing, leaving behind cherished memories of their life together.
Jo Ann enjoyed a distinguished 35-year career with United Airlines, beginning in 1971 as an Administrative Assistant and advancing into various administrative leadership roles. Known for her exceptional organizational skills, professionalism, and dedication, she became a trusted and respected colleague and received numerous awards and commendations.
Above all her accomplishments, Jo Ann’s greatest devotion was to God. Introduced to Shiloh Baptist Church as an infant, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and remained a lifelong member for more than 80 years.
She joyfully shared her beautiful voice through the Junior, Senior, Gospel, Unity, Mass, and Inspirational Choirs. Her faithful service also included serving as Supervisor of the Shiloh Baptist Nursery School, Co-Chairperson of the Mother’s Day Committee, Chairperson of Souvenirs for the Centennial Celebration, and Trustee.
Beyond the church, Jo Ann was committed to her community through her involvement with the NAACP and the West Medford Community Center, where she served as Treasurer of the Women’s Club. She also enjoyed bowling and was an active member of the Mystic Valley Women’s Bowling League, serving as President and Scorekeeper. Her love of travel led her to become a dedicated trip coordinator for the Community Trekkers, her family, and her bowling league, creating memorable experiences for those around her.
Family was the center of Jo Ann’s heart. She treasured holidays, reunions, birthdays, and special celebrations, making every effort to be present wherever her loved ones gathered. She will be remembered for the laughter, music, dancing, stories, and precious moments she shared with family and friends.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Phillips and Gertrude Booker Phillips; her husband, Charles P. Tyler; her son, Charles (Chucky) Tyler, Jr.; her sister, Christine Nays; her nephew, Bruce Nays; and her longtime companion, Edward “Buddy” Clayton.
She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Deanna De Leon; her godchildren, Terri Lyne Carrington, Derek Tyler, and Nikia Darden; her close friend, Judi Carrington; a multitude of loving nieces and nephews; extended family members; her beloved church family; treasured friends; and an abundance of loved ones.
Her legacy of faith, love, service, and compassion will live on in all who were blessed to know her.