Marian Elaine Wilkins

Marian Elaine (Tyler) Wilkins, affectionately called “Lanie” by family and friends; a beloved and cherished member of her family and community, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on December 17, 1958, in Kansas City, MO, Marian was the cherished daughter of the late Harrison B. Tyler Jr. and Lillian G. Tyler. She was a passionate advocate for family, a devoted wife, a loving mother, grandmother, amazing sister and a steadfast friend who touched the lives of all who knew her.

Marian's early life in Kansas City was filled with the warmth and love of a close-knit family. She graduated from Southeast High School in 1976 and pursued higher education at Texas Southern University, where she majored in Business Management. Her professional career began working for Channel 41 News as the assistant to the program director, her passion for advancement led her to a significant role as a buyer at the Lake City Ammunition Plant, where she was admired for her diligence and dedication.

On September 3, 1983, Marian married the love of her life, Oliver Wilkins. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared a partnership founded on love and mutual respect until Oliver's passing. She was blessed with two wonderful children: Bryant and LaTisha (Randall); two stepsons, Tony and TJ, who, along with her grandchildren: London, Mya, Mariah Cole, and Bryanna Wilkins, were the heart of Marian's world. Her family was her greatest joy, and her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Marian was their biggest cheerleader, celebrating their every achievement with boundless enthusiasm and unwavering support.

A woman of deep faith, Marian was an active member of Ebenezer AME Church, where she participated in various church activities, enriching the lives of those in her congregation. Her faith was a guiding light, offering her strength and comfort throughout her life.

Marian was also a dedicated member of the Tyler Family Association, where she served as the corresponding Secretary for several years. She was instrumental in organizing family reunions, and her crowning achievement was the successful orchestration of the 100th Centennial Family Reunion. This monumental event was a testament to her passion for family and her exceptional organizational skills.

Marian is survived by: two wonderful children, Bryant, and LaTisha (Randall); two stepsons, Tony and TJ; her treasured grandchildren: London, Mya, Mariah Cole, and Bryanna Wilkins; her siblings, Ben Tyler (Dimples) and Lynne Tyler; and her nephew, Johnathan Tyler. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Oliver, her infant son, little Harrison, and her parents, Harrison and Lillian.

If you knew Lanie, you found out she had a passion for family connection, where she never met a stranger! In fact, if anyone bore the name of Tyler, you had to be related to her! She would interrogate you by finding out who your mama was, your daddy’s last name and whomever to get down to the bottom line if you were family! That was her lasting feisty spirit, and everyone who knew her would agree!

Marian's legacy is one of love, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to family. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. A memorial service celebrating her remarkable life will be held at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember a woman whose kindness, strength, and love impacted so many.

The family requests that you keep Marian’s dream alive by continuing to stay connected with family by continuing to support the family reunions, that was always her greatest passion next to her kids and grandkids! She often mentioned her passion was to continue her legacy of family unity and togetherness. 

Marian Elaine "Tyler" Wilkins will be dearly missed, 
but her spirit and love will remain with us forever.