• Harrison Ruffin Tyler, grandson of U.S. President John Tyler, died at age 96.
• He was known for preserving Sherwood Forest, his grandfather's plantation.
• Tyler suffered health complications, including strokes and dementia, in recent years.
• His family lineage includes three generations spanning much of U.S. history.
• He is survived by three children and eight great-grandchildren.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler, the last surviving grandson of John Tyler, the 10th president of the United States, passed away on Sunday at his home in Richmond, Virginia, at the age of 96. His death was confirmed by Annique Dunning, executive director of Sherwood Forest Plantation, which has been a significant site for the Tyler family. Tyler had faced a deteriorating health condition, characterized by a series of small strokes and a later diagnosis of dementia, according to The New York Times.

Tyler was born in 1928, 83 years after his grandfather left the White House. Renowned for his dedication to historical preservation, he played a crucial role in maintaining his grandfather's plantation, Sherwood Forest, which also served as a symbol of the family's commitment to history. In an announcement by the local media, Dunning described him as a “beloved father and grandfather” whose legacy includes significant contributions to the preservation of nearby Fort Pocahontas, an important Civil War site, according to NPR and HuffPost.

Throughout his life, Harrison Ruffin Tyler remained connected to his family's legacy, reflecting on his lineage with mixed feelings of pride and disbelief. He often remarked on the remarkable span of history represented by his family's generational line, which includes his father, Lyon Gardiner Tyler Sr., who was the president of the College of William & Mary. Despite the complicated legacy of his grandfather, John Tyler, who was often referred to as “His Accidency” due to the circumstances of his ascension to the presidency, Harrison embraced his family's history and contributions to American society, as noted by HuffPost and The New York Times.

Tyler's philanthropic work included substantial contributions to educational institutions, notably the establishment of an endowment for the College of William & Mary, reflecting his commitment to both history and education. This endowment has since supported a variety of academic pursuits, showcasing his dedication to preserving knowledge and fostering scholarship. His efforts have ensured that important historical narratives, including those concerning slavery and civil rights, continue to be explored and understood, according to NPR.

Harrison Ruffin Tyler is survived by his three children and eight great-grandchildren. Following his death, Sherwood Forest will remain under the stewardship of the Tyler family, ensuring that the legacy of both Harrison and President John Tyler endures through ongoing preservation efforts, as reported by NPR and HuffPost.