Master Sergeant Kenneth Tyler was born on April 14, 1949, in Marytown, West Virginia. He was the fifth of eight children born to the late William and Gladys (Casey) Tyler. Kenny accepted Jesus Christ at an early age, a foundation that would guide him throughout his life.

In pursuit of greater opportunities, his family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio in the 1950s. There, Kenny continued his upbringing and received his education through the Cleveland Public School System, shaping the early years of a life marked by resilience, service, and unwavering faith.

Kenny began his distinguished service in the United States Army on March 22, 1969. Over the course of his career, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant. He served honorably for decades, earning the respect of his peers and the admiration of those he led. His military journey took him across the globe, with assignments in China, Vietnam, Germany, Kuwait, Iraq, Korea, and Panama, and other global posts. Throughout his decades of service, Kenny demonstrated unwavering courage and commitment. He was awarded numerous Bronze Star Medals and a host of service ribbons recognizing his valor and dedication during multiple combat tours. His legacy is one of honor, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to his country.

In the early 1970s, Kenny married his first love, Tammie Barnes, and shared many cherished years with her until her health declined and she was called home to be with the Lord. In the mid 1980s, while stationed in Germany, he met the love of his life, Gaby Hauch. Together they built a life grounded in love and family and were blessed with seven children. After retiring from the United States Army, Kenny returned home to Cleveland, Ohio, where he dedicated nearly 20 years of employment to the Veterans Administration Hospital. He also worked at Lowe’s and proudly served with the Shaker Heights Police Department as a volunteer under the Special Crimes Division.

Education was a lifelong passion for Kenny. He enjoyed learning something new everyday. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, followed by a master’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice, and was diligently working on his doctoral dissertation in Political Science.

Kenny later united with East View United Church of Christ under the leadership of Pastor Jeremy Wanton, where he became a devoted member of the choir. His voice and presence added joy to worship, and his commitment to his church family reflected the same love he carried throughout his life.

Family meant everything to Kenny. He believed wholeheartedly in keeping the family connected, and he lived that belief every day. He stayed in close contact with his nieces, nephew, aunts, and uncles, never letting distance or time weaken the bonds he held dear. His love stretched from coast to coast, traveling from California to New York, and from Alaska to Florida, visiting family and friends wherever they were. If you needed him, all you had to do was call, and Kenny would be there without hesitation. He loved playing cards, trying new restaurants, dancing, and singing karaoke, always bringing laughter and fun wherever he went.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gladys Tyler; his first wife, Tammie Tyler; his son, Joshua; three brothers, William Jr., Adam “Bo,” and Richard; and three sisters, Susie Thomas, Camella “Babe” Tyler, and Karen “Daffy” Tyler.

On December 24, 2025, God came and gently called Kenny home. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved sister, Patricia “Missy” Huff; his six children: Martina, Jessica, Marc, Michelle, Janessa, and Melanie; and eight grandchildren: Dominik, Diondre’, Railen, Ezra, Nola, Liam, Milani, and Nevaeh. He is also remembered with love by his former spouse, Gaby Tyler; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless treasured family members, friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness, loyalty, and love.