Paul Tylor's Obituary
Thank you for honoring the memory of Paul Byrne Tylor, a man of humor and wit who dearly touched those blessed to have known Paul, Paulie, or Pearl. Born on October 4, 1935, he passed away peacefully in the exceptional care of Lenoir Woods and Compassus Hospice in Columbia, Missouri, on October 3, 2023, at the age of 87. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy.
With family roots in County Cork, Ireland, son of George Tylor and Margaret Byrne, Paul was one of five Irish Catholic siblings born and raised in Northeast, D.C., in the Brookland neighborhood (near The Catholic University of America), alongside brothers George Patrick (Mike), Joseph Bernard (Joe), William John (Bill), and sister Margaret Mary (Peggy Pettey).
In his early years, he attended St. Anthony Catholic School in Brookland, and eventually was the head football coach who led the 'Tonies' to an undefeated 11-0 season. A proud Gonzaga College High School alum, Paul earned first-team All-Met honors in his class of '53 and was co-captain with classmate Mike Warner. Owing to the benefit of the GI Bill, he graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, following his service for two years in the Army in Hawaii.
He embarked on a successful career at the National Geographic Society, retiring as an executive in his 50’s as Vice President of Information Services, as well as Corporate Secretary, and helped to lead Explorers Hall at the DC headquarters. All while being a dedicated, attentive and entertaining husband and father.
Paul's passions included golf, family summer trips to North Wildwood, collecting old golf clubs and wood carvings, horse racing, puns, and writing. He leaves behind a collection of novels, short stories, poems, and cherished memories.
Paul is survived by his daughter Sara Jones (Kevin), son Bernie Tylor (Deborah), and his three cherished granddaughters, Madison (Jones), Peyton (Jones), and Katherine (Tylor). He is also survived by his brother Bill and grateful to have been surrounded by many adored nieces and nephews. He now joins his wife Marie (Lehmann), who was the best friend of his sister Peggy growing up, in heaven. A devoted father and dedicated husband, Paul was always encouraging, filled with laughter, a loyal friend, and trusted mentor. Friends and families say goodbye to a patriarch, storyteller, and wise soul. His wisdom will forever guide us.
He will be laid to rest at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Silver Spring, Maryland, next to his beloved wife Marie (“Rita”).
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