James Edward Tyson

James E. Tyson, or Jim, 76, passed away in Bakersfield, California at approximately 6:30am on October 26, 2024. He was surrounded by his family as he bravely laid his arduous battle against cancer to rest. He was born on June 11, 1948, to Floyd and Grace Tyson of Newnan, Georgia. Jim graduated from East Atlanta High School in Atlanta, Georgia. This high school proudly produced its Phoenix yearbook, a treasure Jim kept throughout his life. Following high school, he joined the US Navy. As irony would take a role in Jim’s life, the US Navy stationed this Georgian peach of 17 in San Diego, California, where he would meet his future family and friends. The Vietnam War came, so Jim answered the call of duty on the USS Ingersoll with the completion of two tours; Jim demonstrated valor and tenacity at Da Nang, Vietnam, some of the darkest years in US history. With his stamina and bravery, Jim sought out law enforcement where he became a police officer in McFarland, California. He then followed that commitment with the Kern County Sheriff’s Department in Bakersfield, California. He served as a Senior Deputy Sheriff for many years, and as retirement approached, he vigorously worked in the Sexual Assault and Abuse Investigation Unit (SAAIU) for the Kern County Sheriff’s Office. He loved his work and reminisced of it until death. Jim’s unwavering dedication and integrity touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. 

Jim is preceded in death by both parents, Floyd and Grace Tyson, his sister, June Tyson Coppenger all of Newnan, Georgia. He is survived by his three children, Paula Gordon, Karen Carrasco, James Tyson Jr. and his wife Junie, all of Bakersfield. He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren Jaron, Darrien, Braden, Haley, Ethan, Macey, Avery, Carson, James Tyson II, Benjamin, a new baby girl about to be born in April of 25’; and, his great-grandchild, Chalayah. In addition, he leaves his beloved bulldog, June, who faithfully comforted Jim throughout his battle against cancer. Jim’s grandchildren loved spending time with Grandpa Jim, or as Benji and James call him, Abuelo Jim. His family will deeply miss him but also cherishes his place with Christ, as he shared with them many times. Just as his high school produced the Phoenix, yearbook, Jim’s Georgian fortitude also remade himself from ashes several times during his lifetime, and some of his last words testified of a “beautiful white horse” to take him home to heaven. His legacy of strength, thoughtfulness, and unwavering support will live on, giving his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild direction and hope.