Tyler Grant Eppes
March 6, 1983 – June 3, 2026

Tyler Grant Eppes, 43, passed away on June 3, 2026, after sustaining a severe brain stem stroke on May 4, 2026. Born on March 6, 1983, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Tyler was the oldest of three sons born to Ramona and Jimmy Eppes — a firstborn who set the standard for quiet strength and fierce loyalty that would define every chapter of his life.

Tyler grew up with strong roots in River Run and Lake Norman communities, in the Charlotte NC area, where he spent his teen years and formed a deep connection to the people and places that shaped him. It was during those years that his spirit of adventure first revealed itself. As a high schooler, Tyler and his close friend Jatin set off on their own and traveled throughout Europe during summer break, a remarkable journey for two young men.

He went on to graduate from Clemson University Air Force ROTC program where he became a passionate Tigers fan and forged lifelong friendships.  His Air Force career included extensive time and travel throughout  Africa and Europe. A proud Veteran of the United States Air Force, Tyler served his country with the same unwavering dedication he brought to everything he loved.

Tyler had an adventurous soul and enjoyed his travels to all seven continents. Tyler celebrated his 40th birthday with a trip to Antarctica, complete with a polar plunge. Tyler enjoyed living in the Charleston area, especially the beaches and waterways of the low country. The crystal waters of Grand Cayman held a special place in Tyler's heart and served as a favorite destination with friends and family.

Tyler was a devoted son, a loving brother, and a loyal friend.  Those who knew him best knew that his love, though often expressed quietly, ran deep and constant. Tyler is survived by his parents, Ramona and Jimmy Eppes; his loving brother, Jett Eppes; his loving brother, Blake Eppes and sister-in-law, Ashley Decker Eppes. He was the beloved uncle of his niece, Darby Eppes, and his nephew, Coast Eppes, whom he cherished. Tyler is also survived by his aunt and uncle, Skylar and Fred Harlow; his uncle, Tim Collins and the Decker family including George, Lori, Ariana, Jami and Paige. Tyler enjoyed the love of many cousins, other relatives and friends including Trey, Cara, Collin, Erica, Rita, Marcus, Grace, Claire, Kate, Macy, Morgan, Becky and Minton, and  many others including his Clemson family and his Charleston friends Russ, Greg, Mason and Jess.

The family wishes to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the NEURO ICU Team at MUSC for their exceptional care and compassion. Your dedication meant more than words can express.

Ramona and Jimmy also wish to especially thank all of their dear friends, friends of family and neighbors who surrounded them with prayers, love, and support during this most difficult time. Your kindness has been a profound comfort and blessing.

Tyler Grant Eppes was a hero and a warrior — not just in uniform, but in the way he faced life: with courage, with grace, and with a loyalty that never wavered. He will be laid to rest with full military honors at Veterans Cemetery in Beaufort, South Carolina, a fitting tribute to a man who served his country proudly. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.