Geneva Nell Davis Tyler, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, faithful friend and servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, at the age of 86. Geneva was born on January 24, 1938, in Colmesneil, Texas, where she grew up.
The fourth of five children—and the only daughter—Geneva was determined and fiercely competitive. She was compassionate and kind, her friendly demeanor lit up the room. She graduated valedictorian of her high school and continued her education at Sam Houston State University, where she earned her undergraduate and master’s degree in education.
While at Sam Houston, Geneva met the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Dean Tyler while playing ping pong at the Baptist Student Union. The couple married and began their lifelong partnership in Pasadena, Texas, both serving as educators and active leaders in their home church, Golden Acres Baptist Church and First Baptist Church, Pasadena. Geneva taught elementary Music, English, and Math with passion and dedication. She and Bob shared 64 wonderful years of marriage until Bob’s passing in 2020.
A Life Well-Lived
Geneva’s life was defined by faith, family, and a love for teaching and learning. Geneva’s daily life revolved around spending time in God’s Word. Her Bible was always open as she prepared lessons, memorized scripture, and sought to grow in her walk with the Lord. When she left her home in Huntsville, TX and moved into memory care, you could find her with a small circle of fellow residents sitting around her as she shared God’s word. Once a teacher, always a teacher!
Despite losing her index finger as a child, Geneva was a gifted pianist. Her love of music filled her life, participating in church choirs, singing solos, and leading children’s choirs. She truly used her gift of music to honor the Lord. As a teacher, mentor, and encourager, Geneva motivated others to grow and succeed, always ready with advice. One would often hear her say, “Well, you know what you need to do?” Her dedication to mentorship extended beyond church and school as she and Bob opened their home to a number of people who needed a place to live––whether for short or long stays.
Geneva treasured her family and its traditions. She poured her love and energy into celebrations, holidays, and countless cherished memories around the kitchen table–– from sharing massive Thanksgiving spreads to playing match after match of 42 and Train with a well-used set of dominoes.
When Bob and Geneva retired from the Pasadena Independent School District, they explored the world together, often through their timeshare. One memorable journey was a trip they took to Switzerland, visiting her namesake, “Geneva”. In addition to exploring and traveling, Geneva enjoyed serving as president of many social organizations and playing golf, competing in local tournaments well into her later years.
Geneva’s kindness, joyful competitiveness, wisdom, and steadfast faith will forever be remembered by all who knew her.
Cherished Family
Geneva is survived by her children, Deanne Tyler Hullender (husband Chad) and Robert Keith Tyler (wife Laura); her grandchildren: Halie Hullender Stevenson (husband Michael), Hannah Hullender Huffman (husband Connor), McKinley Tyler Willis (husband Ren), Mitchell Bennett Tyler, and LaurenKate Tyler. And her great-grandchildren: Emma Jane Huffman, Sutton Drew Willis, Eva Elyse Stevensen and Annie Tate Huffman.
She is also survived by her brother, Sam Preston Davis, and sister-in-law, Pauline Davis, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. Geneva was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Dean Tyler; her parents, Van Preston Davis and Alice Fox Davis; and her brothers, Billy Van Davis, O. D. Davis, and Joseph Edward Davis.
Psalm 19:14 was Geneva’s favorite scripture verse that guided her life. “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” May her legacy of faith, love, and service continue to inspire us all.
And on a special note, the family would like to send an acknowledgement of thanks to the many outstanding caregivers from Hidden Springs who deeply cared for mom and lovingly nicknamed her “Gigi” these final years.
In honor of Geneva’s life, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association to support research and care for those affected by this disease.
Services and Memorial
The family will receive friends during a visitation from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 12, 2025 at Davis Cemetery in Colmesneil, Texas. A celebration of Geneva’s life will be held at a later date.