Charlene Tyler

Charlene E. Tyler, 80, of Michigan City, IN, passed away on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Charlene was born on June 2, 1944, in Chicago, IL. Her parents were Lethel Gregory, Paul Allen, and Florence (Amos) Gregory.

Surviving Charlene are her 2 children, Sharon Smith of Michigan City and Cliffton (Terri) Stephney of Bloomington; stepson, Kent Beasley of Chicago; 10 grandchildren, Tiara Smith, Tony Smith, Aaliyah Smith. Torlando (AriAnn) Hakes, Charity (Eric) Stephney-Snowden, Pharyne (Corey) Gremore, Janay Stephney, Leigha (Cameron) Stephney-Sullivan, Cliffton Stephney III and Myles Stephney; 28 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Cliffton Stephney I and Eddie Tyler; grandson, Aaron Smith; and sisters, Rita Allen and Elaine Gregory.

As a child, Charlene was very industrious. She taught piano lessons to her grandmother and gathered the younger children in the neighborhood to teach them kindergarten lessons. She was baptized at the Progressive Baptist Church in Chicago, under the leadership of Rev. T. E. Brown. Charlene was a soloist in the Junior Choir and was the Pastor's wife housekeeper during her pre-teen years.

For many years, Charlene enjoyed sharing her skilled, compassionate care for others in her nursing career at the IN State Prison, Memorial Hospital, St. Anthony Hospital, and lastly at Dungarden Home Health. She was a member of Christ Universal Temple in Chicago.

Charlene's love for singing Gospel music will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. In the 70's, Charlene was in a Gospel music group that sang all over Chicago. Later, because of her skilled vocals, she was offered a recording contract, but felt convicted to not accept it as it wasn't for Gospel music. Charlene knew her calling was to honor the Lord with her voice.

In her spare time, Charlene enjoyed singing karaoke, playing BINGO, cooking on the grill, watching Christmas movies, and celebrating holidays, particularly Thanksgiving, July 4th, and Christmas. Second to the Lord, Charlene dearly loved her family and enjoyed visiting family in NY.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Franciscan Hospice Care, 101 W. 61st Ave., Hobart, IN 46342.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.