With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Barbara L. Tyler, age 93, who departed this life on March 27, 2025, in her beloved hometown of Walton.
Born on December 31, 1931, to Merritt C. Loudon and Katherine Williams Loudon, Barbara lived a life marked by unwavering dedication to her family, community, and faith.
Barbara graduated from Walton High School in 1949 and furthered her education at Albany Business College. For 40 years, she served as a respected legal secretary at the Law Offices of Francis R. Paternoster, where her professionalism and warmth touched many lives.
On April 12, 1958, Barbara united in marriage with Carroll Tyler of Stamford, in a ceremony held at the United Presbyterian Church in Walton. Together, they raised a family that included her children, Mary Tyler-Wall (James) and Joseph Tyler (Barbara). Barbara’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Kathryn Cox (Sean), Melissa Ekstein (Aaron), Leah Tyler, Bronwyn Tyler-Wall, and Emeline Tyler-Wall.
A longtime member of the United Presbyterian Church, Barbara served with grace as a former Deacon and participated as a member of the church choir. Her commitment to her community was evident as a charter member of the Walton Business and Professional Women’s Club, where she held numerous offices, and as a devoted elementary grade school mother, 4-H leader, and Cub Scout Den Mother.
A passionate cook, talented knitter, and avid reader, Barbara enjoyed walking and camping with her family in the scenic Adirondacks and New England. Her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Barbara is predeceased by her loving husband, Carroll; her daughter, Mary; her father, Merritt C. Loudon; her mother, Katherine Williams Loudon; stepmother Mary Laidlaw Loudon; and sisters Lois M. Loudon and Doris L. Spearbeck.
She is survived by her son, Joseph Tyler (Barbara), Jim Tyler-Wall, husband of her late daughter Mary; her grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews including Barbara Iaconis (Paul), Rebecca Stanton (Michael), and Richard Spearbeck Jr. (Cornelia Jones), along with many cousins and grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews.
Calling hours to honor Barbara’s remarkable life will be held Friday, April 4, from 5-7 p.m. at the Courtney Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held Saturday April 5, at 1 p.m. United Presbyterian Church in Walton, with Rev. Dr. Paul Huh officiating.
Burial will take place after the service at the Walton Cemetery, 55 Fancher Avenue.
The family would like to invite all who knew and loved her to join them after the burial at the United Presbyterian Church for refreshments in celebrating her legacy.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s name may be made to the Walton United Presbyterian Church, Enhance Delaware Valley Hospital Fund, or the Walton Theatre Preservation Association, reflecting her commitment to her community and the wellbeing of others.
