Franklin, NY - FRANKLIN - Richard Tyler of Franklin passed away suddenly the first week of January 2026.

Son of Thomas and Dorothy Tyler of Orange Lake, Rich is survived by his wife and soulmate, Loraine; daughter, Jessica; siblings, Tom and Liz; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Rich was educated at SUNY Oneonta and Virginia Tech and served in the U.S. Navy. He taught math and statistics at SUNY Oneonta for 18 years, retiring to build his dream home.

Rich lent his energy and expertise to community organizations throughout his life, often in leadership roles. Among his favorites were Orpheus Theatre, Habitat for Humanity, United University Professions, Fenimore Farm & Country Village, SUNY Oneonta (alumni and retiree organizations), GOHS and St. Mary's Church. Other hobbies included antiquing, woodworking, camping, macrame, word games and logic puzzles, and helping others.

Rich was loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

Friends are invited to greet the family from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9 at Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main Street, Oneonta. A Funeral Mass will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 at St. Mary's Church, 39 Walnut St., Oneonta. A gathering will follow at the Depot Restaurant, 4 1/2 Railroad Ave, Oneonta.

The family respectfully requests facial masks be worn by all to allow immunocompromised family to safely attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Habitat for Humanity via habitatotsego.org, St. Mary's Church via www.smcconeonta.org or designate a gift to the Richard F. Tyler Mathematics Scholarship at SUNY Oneonta via suny.oneonta.edu/division-university-advancement.

Arrangements are by Lester R. Grummons Funeral Home, Oneonta.

Please visit www.grummonsfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence or memory for the family.