Tyree Richard Bayne

Tyree Richard Bayne, lovingly known as Rice, Dr. Bayne, or Taco Bell, passed away on September 13, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia at the age of 34. He was born on April 25, 1992, in New York.

His passing leaves deep sorrow in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, while his life remains a lasting source of pride and inspiration.

Tyree was, at heart, a lifetime student. He loved to study, and he loved going to college. Learning was not simply something he did; it was part of who he was. He graduated from Clark Atlanta University and went on to earn two master’s degrees from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. At the time of his passing, he was a student at Howard University, where he was studying for his doctorate degree. Of all he achieved, his degrees stood among his proudest accomplishments, reflecting the dedication, discipline, and determination that shaped his life.

His first job was at Taco Bell, a memory that stayed with him through the affectionate nickname given to him by one of his aunts. Alongside the names Rice and Dr. Bayne, it was one more expression of the warmth and familiarity that surrounded him throughout his life.

Faith was also an important part of Tyree’s life. He was baptized at a young age at Faith Baptist Church in Hempstead, New York, by Pastor Joe L. Brown, with Tyree’s father, Mr. Johnny Bayne, serving as a baptism assistant. That early foundation remained a cherished part of his story.

Tyree will be remembered as friendly, smart, encouraging, and kind to others. He was an advocate for others, and he had a way of making people feel supported and seen. He formed many meaningful friendships, and many of those connections began through school, where his love of learning also brought him into the lives of so many who cared for him deeply. He had lots of friends who loved him very much, and the impact of his spirit will continue to be felt by all who shared in his journey.

Tyree’s life was marked by perseverance, intellect, and generosity of heart. He pursued knowledge with passion and purpose, and he offered that same energy back to the people around him through his encouragement and care. He will be remembered with love, missed with great tenderness, and honored for the bright and uplifting presence he brought into the world.

Tyree is survived by his parents, Mr. Johnny Bayne and Mrs. Ora Bayne; he is also survived by 6 brothers; 7 sisters; sister-in-law, Melisa Morton; aunts, Inez (Clemon) Cole, Carolyn Flanagan (Anderson H.) Ruffin, Melvin Flanagan-Brown, Marie Walker, Lucille (Kendrick) Bowden, and Wynonie Watts; special friend, Shanadia Cowan; and extended family and friends.

Tyree’s family will receive friends at New Mountain Top Baptist Church in Winston, Georgia on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The funeral service will follow beginning at 12:00 PM with Bishop A. Reginald Litman officiating. He will be laid to rest at New Mountain Top Baptist Church Cemetery.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.jones-wynn.com. Jones-Wynn Funeral Home and Crematory of Douglasville is in charge of the arrangements. 770-942-2311