It is with profound sadness that the Clarke County School District (CCSD) announces the unexpected passing of Ms. Tyler Hortman Parker, a cherished agricultural science teacher at Clarke Middle School (CMS). Ms. Parker, who had been a dedicated member of the CMS faculty for four years, passed away on October 30, 2025, leaving a lasting impact on the school community and beyond.
Her death has been deeply felt by her students, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we mourn her loss, our thoughts are with her husband, Peyton, her family and friends, as well as the many students, both past and present, who were touched by her passion for education and her kindness.
A Beloved Teacher and Role Model
Ms. Parker was more than just a teacher at Clarke Middle School; she was a mentor, a role model, and a friend to everyone she encountered. As an agricultural science teacher, she shared her love for the subject with countless students, inspiring them to pursue their interests in agriculture, science, and beyond. Her classroom was a place where students felt seen, heard, and encouraged to grow, both academically and personally.
Her ability to connect with her students was a hallmark of her teaching style. Many of her students have expressed how her enthusiasm for teaching and dedication to their success went far beyond the classroom walls. Ms. Parker’s commitment to her students’ futures was evident in the time and care she invested in them. She cultivated an environment of respect, understanding, and passion for learning, making a difference in the lives of everyone who had the privilege of being part of her class.
A Tragic Loss for the CMS Community
The sudden loss of Ms. Parker has left a profound void at Clarke Middle School. Her colleagues have described her as an integral part of the CMS family—always ready with a smile, a kind word, and a willingness to support her fellow educators. Whether it was working on lesson plans, collaborating on school events, or simply offering a listening ear, Ms. Parker’s generosity and positive spirit were unmatched.
The grief felt by the CMS staff, students, and their families is immeasurable. The entire school community is mourning the loss of a teacher who made a significant impact on their lives. The Clarke County School District, the CMS administration, and the staff have expressed their deepest condolences to Ms. Parker’s family during this difficult time.
Remembering a Bright Light in the Community
In addition to her work at CMS, Ms. Parker was a dedicated member of the broader community. She cared deeply about her students’ well-being and was a strong advocate for the importance of agricultural education in shaping future leaders. She worked hard to foster connections between students, parents, and the community, believing in the power of collaboration to create a supportive and enriching learning environment.
Ms. Parker’s dedication to her students and her community will be remembered by many. Her legacy will live on through the lessons she taught, the relationships she built, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to education.
Visitation and Funeral Services
A visitation to honor and remember the life of Ms. Tyler Hortman Parker will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at McLeighton Funeral Home, located at 39 West Main St., Butler. This will be an opportunity for family, friends, students, and colleagues to come together in support and remembrance of a life well-lived.
The funeral service will take place on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Musella Baptist Church, located at 5430 US-341, Musella. A graveside service will follow at Union Historic Church Cemetery in Butler, where Ms. Parker will be laid to rest.
Offering Support and Respect for Family and Students
During this difficult time, the Clarke County School District asks that everyone continues to keep Ms. Parker’s family, including her husband Peyton, in their thoughts and prayers. As her loved ones, current and former students, and colleagues navigate the pain of this tragic loss, we ask that the community respect their privacy and offer them the space to grieve.
We also encourage those who are grieving the loss of Ms. Parker to seek support through counseling services and to lean on each other for strength. School counselors and community resources will be made available to students and staff who may need assistance in coping with the emotional impact of this sudden loss.
A Lasting Impact
The impact of Ms. Tyler Hortman Parker’s life and work will continue to resonate throughout the Clarke Middle School community and beyond. While she may no longer be physically present, her spirit, passion for teaching, and the countless lives she touched will remain a powerful force for years to come.
As we say goodbye to a remarkable teacher, colleague, and friend, we reflect on the many ways she made our lives better. Her memory will be cherished, and her legacy will live on in the students she inspired and the hearts of those who knew her.
Please join us in honoring Ms. Tyler Hortman Parker’s memory, and let us keep her family and all those affected by this loss in our thoughts and prayers.
