Tyson Smith was born on May 7, 1964 to Shirley Ann Moore Elliot in Mount Vernon, Illinois. Tyson departed this life on Friday, July 16, 2021 at his residence. He confessed his life to Christ at an early age. Tyson was a graduate of Mount Vernon Township High School. He was employed at Swan Corporation in Centralia and well liked by his fellow employees. He loved being around family and friends and listening to music. Tyson enjoyed to laugh and joke. His favorite song was “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton.

Tyson was preceded in death by his mother, Shirley Moore Elliott; nephew, Kevin Smith, Jr; granddaughter, Reagan Tige Allison; and grandparents, Carrie Wallace, Cleo Moore.

He live to cherish one brother, Kevin Smith and special friend, Debbie from Nashville, Tennessee; four sisters, Luberta Moore and special friend, Rodger from Mount Vernon, Illinois, Elaine Moore and husband, Willie Cain from Mount Vernon, Illinois, Zenita Stephens and husband, Eric from Nashville, Tennessee; one son, Jabaar J. Allison from Nina Allison; four grandkids, Dayanara Allion, Jaydence Allison, Khylen Allison, Mayliya Allison; daughter, Lakeisha Rodriguez of Mount Vernon, Illinois; two step-daughters, Keela Willett; Lindsey Willett both of Sikeston, Missouri from Angie Willett Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, uncles, aunties, and cousins. Tyson left a great impression on everyone he met and will be greatly missed.

“Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call: I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day to laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way; I found my place at the close of day. If my parting has left a void then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes, these things I too shall miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow; I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savoured much; good friends, good times, a loved ones touch. Perhaps my life seemed all too brief: Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me; God wanted me now, He set me free.”

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 1:00 pm at 1520 South 12th Street in Mount Vernon, Illinois 62864.Call Newell Funeral Home at 618-246-0100 or visit newellfuneralhome.com for further information.