George Robert Tyll

Born in Toledo, Ohio, on August 16, 1943, to George W. and Bessie (Gajda) Tyll, George’s early years were marked by a love of sports and teamwork—highlighted by winning the 1956 Pee Wee Baseball Championship. He graduated from Whitmer High School in 1961 and from Ohio University in 1965, where he studied broadcasting and journalism.

Following college, George proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Bremerhaven and Frankfurt with Armed Forces Radio. He later became the sports voice of AFN-Berlin during his final two years of service, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

After his military service, George continued his broadcasting career with positions at WCLT in Newark, Ohio; stations in Decatur, Illinois; and KSAL in Salina, Kansas. He later transitioned to television, working as an anchor, producer, camera operator, and director at WHIZ in Zanesville, Ohio; as an anchor at WTVN/WSYX (Channel 6) in Columbus; and as a news director in markets including Altoona, Pennsylvania (WTAJ 10); Winston-Salem, North Carolina (WXII12); Columbus, Ohio (WCMH 4); Orlando, Florida (WCPX/WKMG 6); and Memphis, Tennessee (WHBQ 13).

Throughout a distinguished career spanning decades, George became a respected leader in broadcast journalism. Known for his sharp editorial judgment, deep integrity, and mentorship of young journalists, he left an enduring mark on newsrooms across the country.

After retiring from broadcasting in 1997, George returned to Central Florida, where he owned and operated Prestige Fence Company. He approached this chapter of his life with the same professionalism and dedication that defined his journalism career.

George is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda G. Tyll; her son, Jeff (Michelle Casteleiro) Harrington, and their family, Mia and Madison Harrington; his children Kevin (Kim) Tyll and Lisa (Matthew) Mitchell; his grandchildren Carson, Morgan, and Peyton Tyll, and Karinne and Garrett Mitchell; his brother Jim (Marilyn) Tyll; and his extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

George will be remembered as a hardworking storyteller, a man who commanded attention with both his presence and his warmth. He was endlessly curious, compassionate, and devoted to those he loved. Proud of his Ohio roots and Czechoslovakian heritage, he lived his life with integrity, humor, and heart.

In gratitude for the compassionate care he received, online donations may be made to AdventHealth Hospice Care in Altamonte Springs, Florida, via the AdventHealth Foundation Central Florida, or to the American Cancer Society.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a date in the future, to be announced by the family. Mr. Tyll will be interred at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery.