Tyrone Gerst

Tyrone Gerst, a beloved figure who touched the lives of many with his warmth and humor, passed away on October 6, 2026. Born on August 12, 1971, in Jersey City, Tyrone was a beacon of kindness and resilience, known for his unwavering dedication to family and community. Tyrone was the cherished son of the late Deborah P. Gerst-Harden and Donald Debose, whose nurturing love shaped him into the compassionate soul he became. He was preceded in death by his treasured daughter Ashley Smith, his sons Kadeem and Kalief Smith, and other dearly loved family members, including his great grandmother Martha Faulkner and grandmother Eva Gerst, uncle Michael Gerst and niece Sade Gerst-Williams. His educational journey began at A. Harry Moore Grammar School and culminated with his graduation from Dickinson High School. Tyrone's career was marked by a strong work ethic and a love for his roles, first at Newark Airport as a plane cleaner and later as a diligent Sanitation Worker. Tyrone was a remarkable athlete, participating in the Special Olympics where he excelled in skiing and bowling, earning numerous awards. His dedication to service extended beyond sports, as he volunteered with the Police Athletic League and served as an usher at Bethesda Baptist Church during the 1980s and 1990s. Those who knew Tyrone will fondly remember his caring nature and his penchant for humor. He was a man who routinely ensured that his family never ran out of essentials like dish detergent and paper goods, conducting monthly checks with a smile and a joke. His wellness checks, often involving long walks, were a testament to his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his loved ones. Surviving Tyrone are his children Lydia Rebecca Coleman, Sharita and Karell Smith, and his cherished granddaughter A'mora Rose Chapman. He is also survived by his sister Linda Dejesus-Gerst and Tiffany Rhone, niece Dr. Chanell Williams, nephews Michael and Leonard Gerst,Jaquis and Aaron Rhone,Najee Moore and Khalil Rhone-Walker, Aunt Barbara Gerst-Davis, Uncle Alan and Alex Doughty, Step Father Dennis Harden and a host of extended family, including his beloved god-brother Jermaine Bronner and favorite cousin Keisha Johnson, known affectionately as Nina. Tyrone's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to those he held dear, and his memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.