Horren Randy Tyler was born November 21, 1958, to James Sidney and Sarah Yeager Tyler (deceased). He graduated from Tri-County Academy in Flora, Mississippi. He attended Hinds Community College and completed a study of criminal justice. Randy dedicated and sacrificed his adult life to law enforcement. Randy began his law enforcement career with the Flora Police Department and later moved to the Canton Police Department. For 27 years, he worked his way through the ranks in the Ridgeland, Mississippi, Police Department, where he served as Police Chief, until his retirement which proved to be short-lived. While Ridgeland Police Chief, this position showcased his exemplary leadership abilities. Moreover, his passion for continuous improvement led him to attend the FBI National Academy's 228th Session in Quantico, Virginia. This prestigious program equipped him with invaluable skills and knowledge, further enhancing his expertise in law enforcement. Randy was an active member of the Mississippi Chapter of the FBI National Academy Associates. He came out of retirement, shortly after he had decided to back away from law enforcement, and joined the Madison Police Department where he served seven years as an officer. Randy was a member of its special response team. He played a vital role as the Department's Field Training Coordinator, mentoring and guiding newly hired police officers. Tyler's commitment extended beyond training; he also served as a supervisor in the Narcotics Division, combating the illicit drug trade and safeguarding the community. During this time, he earned immense respect for his dedication and leadership skills. Randy was one of numerous officers called to a domestic dispute in Brandon in the early hours of June 1. Tragically, during the negotiations with the barricaded suspect, Randy was shot and killed by the suspect. Randy died a hero. He was one of many law enforcement officers who have sacrificed all. After 27 years of service in law enforcement, Randy’s watch ended on June 1, 2023. Countless tributes and memorials have flooded the news and social media. “Today, (posted June 1) Mississippi grieves for Officer Tyler, his loved ones, and the rest of the law enforcement community,” Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said in a statement. “His courageous sacrifice likely stopped others from being killed or injured.” The Madison Police Department said in a statement, “Horren Randy Tyler was more than just a dedicated officer; he was a beloved member of the Madison Police Department family. His impact extended far beyond his professional duties. Randy's colleagues regarded him as a leader and mentor, seeking his guidance in challenging situations. The void left by his absence will be felt by every member of the department.” Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler said, “May God bless his precious family and the men and women of the Madison Police Department. We covet your prayers.” “Chief Tyler worked in the Ridgeland Police Department for over 27 years and became the Chief of Police in 2014. His service to our community from 1987 – 2015 will not be forgotten. Mayor Gene McGee, Ridgeland Board of Alderman, and City staff sent their deepest condolences to his family and are thankful that we were able to have Randy as a part of our City family for all of those years,” the City of Ridgeland said in a statement. A private funeral service was held for Randy on Friday, June 9, 2023, at Parkway Church in Madison. He was buried in the Natchez Trace Memorial Park Cemetery. Randy leaves his father, James Sidney (Ila) Tyler, of Canton; wife, Tuie Tyler; brother, Mitch (Benee) Tyler; sons, Hunter (Rachel) Tyler and Eli Tyler; daughters, Shelby (Justin) Tew and Sydni (Christian) Hughes; grandchildren, Cooper Tew, Cam Tew, and Charlie Tyler; niece, Heather (Adam) Duplechain; nephew, Troy Tyler; great-niece, Elle Kate Duplechain, and a host of cousins and other relatives and friends who also loved him deeply. Memorials in Randy's name may be donated to Wounded Warrior Project https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org or Folds of Honor https://www.foldsofhonor.org. There also is a GoFundMe established by Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sea Tindell in Randy’s honor for his minor son’s educational expenses and expenses for his family.https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-expenses-for-randy-tyler-madison-pd?…
