Jonathan Tyler

Jonathan Keith Tyler was the youngest of three sons born to the late Lorenda Kendrick Tyler and the late James Ralph Tyler, Sr. on March 24, 1956. He departed this life on November 5, 2018.

Jonathan was educated in the Pittsburgh Public School System, graduating from Schenley High School in June 1974, with honors. After graduation, he attended the Rochester Institute of Technology for one year. Later her enrolled at Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama. He graduated  in 1982 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Chemistry. Upon graduation from Tuskegee, Jonathan was employed by Dowell Schlumberger where he worked in various capacities, including in the oil fields of Oklahoma, Louisiana and on oil wells in the Gulf of Mexico.

Upon returning to Pittsburgh in 1987 after the passing of his mother, Jonathan decided to enter the field of education. He receive his teachers' certification from the University of Pittsburgh and was soon employed by the Woodland Hills School District. During his tenure there he taught Chemistry and Physical Science. He also coached basketball and volleyball and assisted with the high school football team. In 1999, Jonathan was hired by the Pittsburgh Public School District where he taught Chemistry at Oliver, Westinghouse and the Student Achievement Center until his untimely passing. He loved teaching and often referred to students as his" babies" and his "little angels". His desire was to plant a positive seed in their lives.

Jonny K. was a sports enthusiast. He particularly likes rugby. He developed the love of rugby while living in Oklahoma. When he returned to Pittsburgh he played rugby with the Pittsburgh Rugby Club. In his early days he also enjoyed playing basketball and football. In his later days he enjoyed watching these sports and was often described as an "armchair sportscaster/coach". Jonathan loved swimming and was a certified lifeguard. He spent many summers lifeguarding and teaching children to swim at some of the city pools. Jonny K. also enjoyed Anime and would often binge on Anime series. He had a passion for cars and music and especially loved to dance.

Jonathan was a man of God and he loved the Lord. He felt his mission was to serve. In that spirit, he dedicated several years as a caregiver to his beloved Aunt Dodie. He always found ways to minister to other people, especially with the inspirational messages he sent out every morning. In 2012 he was ordained as a Deacon at Pilgrim Baptist Church. He was currently serving as a Deacon at Gospel Temple Ministries under the tutelage of Rev. Thomas L. Holland.

Jonathan is survived by his brothers, James Ralph Tyler, Jr. (Suzanne) of East Brunswick, New Jersey and Michael Duane Tyler (Marva) of Rochester, New York; two nephews, Marcus (Melissa), Michael; three nieces, Imani, Jaimee and Quanique, one great nephew, Quinton, four great nieces, Jordan, Zari, Hannah and A'Nyla; longtime friend and companion, Victoria Ridley and a host of relatives, friends and students. He will be greatly missed by all.

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