Word has been received of the death of Joe Tyson, who with his wife, Evelyn, was instrumental in the forming of the Urban Hope Training Center in Philadelphia 20 years ago. “We thank God for Joe and we are praying for his family. Thank you, Lord, for faithful people who have laid incredible foundations for ministries that impact hundreds and thousands for Christ!” a post at CE National, the parent organization of Urban Hope said. His obituary appears below.
Joseph Tyson, 86, of Souderton, Pa., went home to be with his Lord and Savior Sunday morning, August 19, 2018.
Joe was born on August 21st, 1932 in Philadelphia, Pa where he resided for over 80 years. Joe served 2 years as a radio operator during the Korean War. Joe was in the Carpenter’s Union for 65 years and spent much of that time traveling through 5 states laying floors in schools, homes and commercial buildings. Joe played high school and semi-pro football with the Cayuga Bears, coached the Tabor Rams and enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Joe was an active member and trustee at Third Brethren Church and Grace Community Bible Church for over 50 years. He was also a leader of Boys Brigade.
Joe loved cracking jokes, eating sweets and talking to children at church. He loved spending as much time as possible with his family camping, boating, watersports, and going on road trips. Joe was always willing and often looking to help someone in need. He loved wood-working and any project repairing something. Joe lived life with wonderment and a sense of adventure. He was full of joy and love, and was unmistakably himself. Anyone who met him was greeted with a smile, a hearty handshake and immediate interest, but left with a memory they would keep forever.
Joe was the son of the late Henry and Ruth (Stanistreet) Tyson. He is survived by his beloved wife “Evie” Evelyn of 66 years, his four children, sons Glenn and Scott and twin daughters Kathy and Karen, his favorite granddaughter Amy and his best buddy, grandson TJ. He is also survived by his eldest sister, Jane Crosson, and youngest sister, Ruth Neumann. He was preceded in death by his daughter Nancy.
A memorial service celebrating Joe’s life and all of the lives he has touched will be held at Penn Valley Church (320 N. Third St. Telford, Pa 18969) on Saturday, September 22 at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow. For those desiring, a memorial contribution may be made in Joe’s name to MetroGrace: 7721-31 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa 19136.