Donald Wayne Tyler Sr., 60, of Asbury Park, NJ, passed away on November 2, 2025. Born August 23, 1965, in Austin, TX, he was the beloved son of Rodney Michael Tyler and the late Carolyn Faye Cox Tyler.
Donald attended Long Branch Public Schools, where he ran track and discovered his love and passion for track and field—something that stayed with him throughout his life. He especially looked forward to the yearly trips to the Penn Relays, which became a cherished family tradition he loved to share with friends and family.
Donald was a devoted sports fan, with boxing being his favorite to watch. He made sure everyone knew those Pittsburgh Steelers held a special place in his heart.
Anyone who knew Donald knew his gift of gab. He would light up any room with his warm smile, quick wit, and larger-than-life personality. He had that special way of making everyone feel like family—or that you’d known him forever. Donald was truly the glue that kept all his loved ones connected. He was lovingly but fittingly known by many as the “King of the Podium” or “CNN.” Donald was a storyteller like no other. His words had heart, humor, and meaning, and he had a way of telling a story that made you feel like you were there.
Donald came from a family where cousins were like brothers and sisters. Family wasn’t just important to him—it was the heart of who he was. He was a devoted, loving, and proud father and grandfather, always happiest when surrounded by the people he loved most. For Donald, family wasn’t something you talked about—it was something you lived every day through love, loyalty, and laughter.
Donald dedicated much of his life to helping others. He worked as a drug counselor, believing deeply in second chances and the power of redemption. Before retiring, he was proud to serve at Hackensack Meridian, where he touched many lives with compassion and care.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn Faye Cox Tyler; sister, Carol Cox Reevey; maternal grandparents, Willie Sr. and Esther Cox; paternal grandparents, Albert Sr. and Azalea Tyler; uncles, Willie “Boot” Cox Jr., Abdur Rahim Wali Sr., Noah “Bo” Cox, Luther “Richard” Cox, Jimmy Lee Cox, and Albert “Junie Boy” Tyler Jr.; aunts, Ida Ruth Daniels, Mary “Mae” Cox, and Brenda Jackson; his nephew, Tajiere Tyler; and his son’s mother, Cora “CoCo” Anderson.
Donald leaves behind his wife, Lisa Tyler; his beloved son and legacy, Donald Wayne Taijere Tyler Jr.; grandchildren, Dallas Tyler, Kaiden Tyler, and Zara Tyler; stepchildren, Leah Jones, Michael Hall, and Marvin Hall; his father, Rodney Tyler; brothers, Curtis Tyler Sr. and Richard Tyler; and sisters, Natalie Tyler, Saay’Onna Tyler, and Saniyah Tyler; and brother-in-law, Aaron Reevey. His cherished nieces, Shantell “Pinky” Cox, Desiree Tyler, Destiny Reevey, and Jasmine Tyler; and nephews, Isaiah Reevey, Curtis Tyler Jr., Larry Morris, Karahn Morris, Jordan Morris, Anfernee Morris, and Khahari Tyler. His loving uncles, Arthur “Bud” Cox (Julene), Alonzo “Tim” Cox, Nicholas Tyler (Barbara), Shane Tyler, Apostle Dr. Al Anderson (Kerry), Aulander “Buddy” Daniels, and Bennie Jackson. His devoted aunts, Annie “Sis” Cox, Estalita Tyler, and Jamilah Wali; and his lifelong best friend, Frederick Colbert along with a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who shared countless laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments over the years that will forever treasure his memory.
Donald’s presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His spirit, laughter, and love for family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
