Mary Tyler

Mary Little Tyler, age 95 of Kalamazoo, died peacefully at home on February 4, 2024. She was born on October 5, 1928, the daughter of Alvin and Emily (Tedrow) Little. Mary was a 1946 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School and received her bachelor's degree in education from the University of Colorado. On October 18, 1952, she married James Tyler in Kalamazoo. Mary was very active in her community, serving on numerous boards. She loved music and was a former board member and supporter of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. She was a lifelong member of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo.

She is survived by her children: Timothy Tyler, Sarah Tyler (Alan) Chase, Toni Lyn Tyler; her daughters-in-law: Ruth Tyler, Kristen Tyler; all of Kalamazoo. Her grandchildren: Robert (Maureen) Tyler of Harbor Springs, MI, Julie Tyler (Alex) Knudsen of Chicago, and Justin Tyler of Kalamazoo; her great-grandchildren: Hattie Tyler and Camilla and Mason Knudsen; her nieces Amy Tyler Davis of Colorado and Virginia S. Little of Kalamazoo; her nephews John Bramer Tyler and Matthew James Tyler, both of Colorado; and several nieces and nephews: She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James Tyler; her son, Steven Tyler; and her brother, William Tedrow "Ted" Little.

Mary was extremely proud of her heritage in the community that dated back to her great-great grandfather that was the first settler with the Native Americans in Yorkville (Gull Lake) Michigan. The original dam at the end of Gull Lake was built by her grandfather and powered the Yorkville Milling Company.

She had great business acumen and was a true entrepreneur. In the early 1950's along with her husband Jim and Jim's cousin, they launched Metal Product sales, which eventually became Tyler Supply Company, and continues today. She served as Chairman Of the Board of Borroughs Corporation after the passing of her husband, Jim, in 2005. Her guidance, pride, and support of the businesses for the employees and community was tremendous. 

Mary was dedicated to her faith, country, family, friends, and her community. She lived life to the fullest as a pilot, adventurer, but most of all, as wanting to give back and make her community and the world a better place while she was here. The list of organizations she served being too long to include here. She considered the Challenger Learning Center that she and Jim donated to the Kalamazoo Valley Museum one of her greatest contributions, as it could inspire young people about science and flight. This passion for education and history she carried as board member of the Kalamazoo Air Zoo.

A memorial service and celebration of Mary's life will be held Friday, April 12th at 2:00 pm at the First Presbyterian Church 321 W. South St, with the Rev. Dr. Seth E. Weeldreyer officiating. There will be no visitation. Private graveside services will be at Yorkville Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to a local charity of choice, The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and The Kalamazoo Air Zoo. 

Arrangements were made by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. Please visit Mary's personalized webpage to sign the online guest book or leave a message for the family at www.langelands.com.