PHILADELPHIA, PA – It is with sadness that the Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) announces one of its longest-serving employees has passed away.

Tyrone Lites, HSP’s assistant facilities manager since 2003, was an integral part of the institution and will be remembered as much for his ever-present smile and positivity as his impeccable workmanship.

To staff, board, volunteers, members, and visitors, Tyrone represented all that HSP strives to be: kind, welcoming, and dedicated to sharing a love of history.

Like the collections he worked so hard to ensure were accessible and open to all, Tyrone will not be forgotten. HSP extends its sincerest condolences to Tyrone’s family and friends, of which many HSP staffers were proud to count themselves as members. 

The statement copied below is adapted from the remembrance submitted by Tyrone’s family:

He was born on April 4, 1960 in Philadelphia at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. He was educated in the Philadelphia public school system.

After high school, Tyrone went on to attend the Settlement Music School. He also studied martial arts where he received the level of black belt.

Tyrone had a love for music and the arts. While younger, he formed a band with some of his closest friends where he was the bass played. He was also the co-owner of a production company and recording studio.

Tyrone met the love of his life Regina Harvin and was wed on June 28, 1986. They were married for 30 years and from this union they had one son, Tyrone Jr.

Tyrone worked at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania as the assistant facilities manager. He continued to work during his illness because of his love for his job and the people he worked with.

Tyrone touched all those that knew him and he will be truly missed.