Vernell Tyson

Vernell "Big John" Tyson, age 58, of Abilene, died Wednesday, August 3, 2005 at Hendrick Health Systems. Visitation will be Friday, August 5th from 5 to 7 p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Rd. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 6, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at New Light Baptist Church in Abilene with burial to follow in the Elmwood Memorial Park under the direction of The Hamil Family Funeral Home. Vernell Tyson was born on October 22, 1946 in Orange, Texas to parents Vernell Tyson, Sr. and Melvina Garrett Tyson. He married Lillie Bell Johnson in Abilene on June 19, 1967. Known as "Big John", Vernell worked for R.L. Anderson Truck Co.; Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home and Hanner Chevrolet in Baird. Vernell was preceded in death by his father. Vernell is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 38 years, Lillie of the home; two sons: John D. Tyson and Allen M. Johnson, both of Abilene. Also a daughter: Nicole Tyson of Abilene; and a brother: Lonell Tyson of Houston; a brother-in-law: Freddie Johnson, Jr.; and three sister-in-laws: Lorene Wilson, Dorothy Johnson, and Dorothy M. Johnson. Also one uncle: Gene Jesse Garrett; and three aunts: Molly Walker, Catherine Henry and Julie Johnson along with two grandchildren: Kevontrey Brown and Arreyonna Turner and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.