August 23, 1953 — March 8, 2023
JoAnn Marie (Matty) Tyson, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, cousin, “Thea,” and friend, passed away on March 8, 2023, surrounded by her family at her home in Emerald Hills, CA. She was born on August 23, 1953, in San Bernardino, CA, to her loving parents Gus and Thelxe Matty.
JoAnn leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her devoted husband of 33 years, Paul Tyson; her loving daughter, Kassandra; stepson Tye (Pam) Tyson; her mother, Thelxe Matty; her brother, David (Barbara) Matty; her sister, Sharon Matty; her nieces, Anastasia and Nia Matty; and her grandchildren, Tierra, Siena, and Gianna Tyson. She is predeceased by her father, Gus Matty.
Throughout her life, JoAnn was deeply involved in the Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church in the Inland Empire. She actively participated in her parish, its youth group, and the Maids of Athena, where she served as District 20 Governor and traveled throughout the country representing her religion. JoAnn excelled academically, graduating from Redlands High School and later earning an Accounting Degree from Cal State San Bernardino. Her professional journey led her to become an accomplished CPA, working as an auditor and accountant. Notably, she broke barriers by being the first female team member to work alongside executives at her firm. She traveled extensively, auditing Native American reservations for the government.
In due course, she became the Vice President of a development firm, working in a prestigious top floor suite of the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco, with views of the bay and bridges.
Later in life, JoAnn embarked on a new chapter when she established her own successful private cpa practice. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Paul, and together they ventured into several thriving family businesses. They shared a passion for exploration, often flying their private plane to their favorite destinations, such as Bend, OR, and the California Gold Country. Their shared adventures allowed them to discover and cherish countless new places across the United States. JoAnn’s most cherished dream came true with the arrival of her and Paul’s daughter, Kassandra. JoAnn wholeheartedly embraced her role as a mother, actively engaging in Kassi’s school and sports activities. She took immense pride in her beautiful daughter and her numerous achievements. JoAnn and Kassandra were an unbreakable duo, sharing a bond as both best-friends, confidants and flawless collaborators in their business efforts.
JoAnn’s impact on her family and peers was immeasurable and exceptional. She possessed the rare ability to listen without judgment and guide others with grace and love. Those fortunate enough to have known JoAnn would attest that she played a transformative role in their lives. Her genuine care and compassion touched the hearts of many.
JoAnn’s love for family and friends was boundless, and she prioritized nurturing those relationships. She was an exceptional cook, hostess, gardener, and outdoor enthusiast. Those who had the pleasure of knowing her will forever remember her infectious smile, enthusiasm, unwavering integrity, kindness, charitable spirit, faith, and her profound love for Greek culture, which she exemplified in her daily life. JoAnn’s memory will be cherished dearly by her family, friends, and clients.
Throughout her brave battle with ovarian cancer of almost 5 years, JoAnn displayed remarkable courage. She underwent various treatments, including participating in a clinical trial, all while maintaining an unwavering spirit. JoAnn, Paul, and Kassandra are profoundly grateful for the exceptional care provided by Doctor Dorigo and his team at Stanford Hospital. JoAnn’s passion for uncovering the mysteries of the disease and her commitment to raising awareness for future generations serve as an enduring inspiration. Doctors were always impressed by her notebooks of extensive notes and research, she was truly an advocate and warrior to the ultimate degree.
No words can adequately capture the extraordinary spirit and remarkable character that defined JoAnn. Her legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering strength will forever be remembered. We miss her with all our hearts.
The Tyson family will have a celebration of life on August 23, 2023, JoAnn’s birthday.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to either of two efforts very dear to her heart: the St Basil’s Building Fund or to Stanford Hospital Oncology research.