Tyrone J. Christy, 55, of Butler, passed away Monday, July 16, after an awe-inspiringly courageous battle with cancer.  He lived his life guided by principles and a moral compass that was an inspiration to everyone who knew him.  Stubborn to a fault, he died an astonishing four years after he was told to "…get his affairs in order".  Gifted with an amazing intellect, his illness became his occupation.  He researched doctors, diets, treatments, medications, trials and supplements.  He suffered, fought, endured, rallied and eventually succumbed without ever losing his razor-sharp wit or uncanny ability to imitate anyone he met.

He was born in Butler on August 4, 1962 to Kenneth Christy and Norma Berra Christy.  He was a 1980 graduate of Butler High School where he excelled in varsity football, basketball and track.  He graduated from Grove City College with a degree in chemical engineering.

Tyrone had a long, distinguished career in the energy field and was a highly respected consultant in the private sector.  He proudly served as Vice Chairman of the Pennsylvania Utility Commission where he fought tirelessly for the less fortunate and for the people of his hometown.  He was also on the board of directors for the PA Energy Development Authority.

Immensely proud to be a Butlerite, he was a long-time member of the Sons of Italy. He served on the boards of the YMCA, the United Way of Butler County, and the PA United Way.  He was instrumental in implementing the PA United Way's 2-1-1 program, which connects people to social services.

Tyrone was an avid golfer who enjoyed a cold Miller High Life. He also loved hiking and fishing with his family.

Throughout his illness, he was comforted by a strong faith.  He was a member of St. Fidelis Roman Catholic Church in Meridian.

Tyrone found the strength to endure the cancer in the love of his family.  He is survived by his devoted wife, Anne (Loncle); his beloved children, Amanda, Victoria and Sean; his parents; his brother, Kirby, and his wife, Julie; and stepsister Jennifer and her husband, Scott; and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.  He was cherished by many life-long friends.

He leaves behind a world that is a better place for his having lived.

There will be no visitation.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 20, at 12:30 p.m. from St. Fidelis Roman Catholic Church in Meridian, with Reverend John F. Loncle, Tyrone's brother-in-law, officiating.

Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tyrone's memory to the United Way of Butler County, 407 West Jefferson Street, Suite A, Butler, PA 16001.