Jean Tyler, 90

12/13/2023

Jean A. Tyler died Wednesday, Dec. 13 in New Braunfels, Texas, at the age of 90.

Jean was born on Nov. 12, 1933, in North Adams, Mass. She was the daughter of Joseph and Edith (Jennings) Oldham. Jean was raised in the Blackinton section of North Adams and shared many happy memories of her time there. Jean attended local schools and graduated from Drury High School in 1951.

In June of 1952, Jean married the love of her life, Manley Tyler. They shared many happy years together until Manley's devastating diagnosis of Alzheimer's took its toll. Manley died in October 1986 and Jean turned her heartbreak into a force for good. She started and participated in many support groups and she was always available to caregivers in crisis. Jean co-authored a book, "The Diminished Mind" with Harry Anafantakis, charting her journey as a caregiver and enlightening many to the personal tragedy of the disease. Jean devoted her life to giving speeches, interviews, and advocating for caregiver support for those affected by Alzheimer's disease. Eventually, Jean expanded her care and concern to residents of nursing homes through Elder Services and an Ombudsman. She was a force for dignity and care.

In addition to her dedication to advocacy, Jean was a loving mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and she had a special longtime bond with her cat TJ. Jean loved music, art, theatre, and movies. She loved a glass of wine and Perry Mason and a good political discussion. Jean was an avid reader, especially the works of David McCullough, Doris Kearns Goodwin, and Agatha Christie.

A loving, kind, and generous woman who touched so many lives.

When her health began to fail, she made the decision to leave her lifelong home in the Berkshires and move to Texas to be closer to her family.

Jean is survived by her daughter Laurie DelNegro and her husband Arthur, and son Steven Tyler and his wife Belinda, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will also be missed by dear friends and cousins.

There will be no calling hours or service. A close family gathering will be held at a later date.

OBITUARIES

Jean Tyler, 90

Memorials

With sincere sympathy to Jean's family at her recent passing. I worked with Jean at Patten Corp years ago in their advertising department. She was a lovely lady and did so much to help the Alzheimer's association.
from: Mary Ellen Eliasen	on: 12-26-2023

What a helpful lady - My Dad &friend) came across Alzimers at 55 during the 80s. I thought I was helpless. I called Jean and she was happy to help me. To my estimation later on - my dad and Jeans sweet heart were in the same room in a hospital. Thank You Jean - I MISS YOU - xoxo Barb T.
from: BARBARA J TATRO	on: 12-24-2023

Very sorry to hear of your moms passing Laurie. My condolences to the family.
from: Jim Wolfe	on: 12-24-2023

So sorry for your loss ???May the blessings of your shared life comfort you during this difficult time.
from: Joni Dunn	on: 12-23-2023

Laurie, Steve and family. Condolences to both of you and your families. She was such a lovely lady. Thoughts are with you!
from: Deb Casuscelli Blanchard	on: 12-23-2023

So sorry for your loss. Really admired Jean’
from:	on: 12-22-2023

Many years ago I had the fortunate pleasure of living next door to Jean. It was at a time that I found myself in a new situation in life and she was so supportive and comforting with just her presence and conversation. Many thoughts and prayers to her family and thank you Jean for your care and comfort all those years ago.
from: Melissa Montoya	on: 12-22-2023

Dear Laurie and family, what a beautiful loving tribute for a loving and caring mother. God bless.
from: David lipinski	on: 12-22-2023