Bernard (Bernie) L. Tyler Jr., 85, of Derry, NH, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, March 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 19, 1939, in Lowell, MA, he was the son of Bernard Sr. and Hazel (Sager) Tyler.
Bernie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather (Papa), and great-grandfather who cherished time spent with family. He was blessed to share many decades of love and partnership with his first wife, Olene J. (Cluff) Tyler, whom he loved deeply until her passing in 2014. After grieving for several years, he felt love and companionship again with his second wife, Isabel Maldonado, who passed away in 2021. Lastly, he found love again with his third wife, Claudette (Mendes) Tyler, with whom he spent his final years.
He is survived by two sons, Donald and wife Elaine (Bisson) Tyler of Litchfield, NH, Jeffrey and wife Rosita (Yambo) Tyler of Dracut, MA; daughter Deborah and husband Jeff McCutchan of Mesa, AZ; five grandchildren, Cassie, Emily, Kayla, Joshua, and Gary; two great-grandchildren, Leah and Olivia; four step-grandchildren, Jeffrey, Jennifer, Elizabeth and Ben. Bernie also had a loving sister, Carol (Tyler) Beaver, whom he adored. He also left many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Ashli Vandenbroeke, in 2010.
Bernie was a proud veteran who joined the army after graduating from Tewksbury High School. He lived and worked in Las Vegas as a truck driver before moving to Dracut, Massachusetts, where he lived for 40 years. In 2005, he settled in Derry, NH.
Bernie worked at EA Wilson, Trans Gas, and Interstate Container until being elected president and business agent of Teamsters Local 49. He passionately advocated and fought for his Teamster brethren for 20 years. He was very proud of his Teamster membership and was a devoted member until he passed.
Bernie enjoyed camping at Sanborn Shore Acres for 40 years and made many life-long friends. He also enjoyed his antique cars, boats, motorcycles, and motorhomes. He loved having family over for gatherings and spending the day at the pool with his grandchildren. Nothing made him happier than a fried seafood dinner and a piece of Haddock from Larry’s Clam Bar in Plaistow, NH. He never went anywhere without a little snack (whether in his pockets or on the passenger side of his car). His favorites included cough drops, peanut butter crackers, and peanuts.
Bernie had many beloved animals throughout his life, but his most cherished companion was Lady, a mixed breed he rescued (though one could argue she rescued him). They shared over 10 years together until her recent passing. His family finds solace in the fact that they have been reunited.
Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Peabody Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry, NH. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM in the funeral home, followed by burial at Forest Hill Cemetery, E. Derry Rd., E. Derry, NH.
Bernie will be remembered for his dedication to his family, the Teamsters, and his impact on the many lives he touched.