R. Tyson

Robert Michael Tyson died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Atlanta Friday evening. He was born in Sparks, Georgia, March 22, 1947 to the late Ila Mae and Sankey Booth Tyson. He attended Sparks Elementary School and graduated from Cook High School in 1965 where he was named friendliest in his class. Mike began his college career at Valdosta State College and graduated from Georgia State University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in education. He also served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. His professional career was spent in Atlanta with General Motors Corporation from which he recently retired. Following his retirement he began a relationship with the Atlanta Merchandise Mart. Because of his love of people, this was an association he especially enjoyed. Mike's many interests included cycling and running. He participated in the Peachtree Roadrace numerous times. He enjoyed movies, books, music, and especially his wide circle of friends and beloved family. He loved animals and leaves to mourn him his precious puppy, Betty Jean. He is survived by three brothers and their spouses: Kay and Jimmy Tyson, Puyallup, Washington, Polly and Charles Tyson, Bainbridge, Georgia, Mickie and Bill Tyson, Sparks, Georgia, and four sisters and their spouses: Jackie and Virgil McCrary, Valdosta, Jean and the late Royce Phillips, Shalimar, Florida, Shirley Dyer, Polly and George Talley, Valdosta, Georgia, numerous nieces and nephews and many, many friends. Funeral Services will be held graveside at Sparks Cemetery on Saturday, April 3, at 2:00 in the afternoon. Reverend Willie Beasley will officiate. In the event of inclement weather services will be held at Sparks Baptist Church. Flowers will be accepted or in lieu of flowers a donation may be made to your favorite charity. Carson McLane Funeral Home 2215 N Patterson Street Valdosta, GA 31602 877-242-5544