James Kyle

James William Kyle, 81, went to his heavenly home on December 25, 2025. James was born on December 11, 1944 to the late Lester Worth Kyle and Bertha Adeline Ledford. He was born and raised in Ellijay, Georgia. James moved his family to Cleveland, Tennessee in 1979, where he continued to make a life centered on faith and family.

James was a devoted Christian who always put God first in his life. He was a faithful member of the Church of Christ, and his faith guided him in all that he did, shaping the love and kindness he shared so freely with others. He was a loving son, brother, husband, a proud "Daddy", and a cherished Papaw who found his greatest joy in his family.

James never met a stranger. He loved to talk, laugh, and spend time with family and friends, bringing warmth and joy wherever he went. He had a special love for bluegrass music and found happiness in singing and playing his guitar. Always a "ham" for the camera, James was quick with a smile and ready to make others laugh.

His love was truly boundless. James will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love him.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his first wife, Wanda Griffin Kyle; along with his siblings, Mack Kyle and Inez Porter.

James is survived by his spouse, Barbara Griffin Kyle; son, James "Scott" Kyle; daughters, Melissa Kyle Kennedy (Joe); step-daughter, Paula Goode (Mike); siblings, Jack Kyle, Franklin Kyle, and Essie Gooch; grandchildren, Kelli Ledford, James "Jamie" Painter, Caleb Kyle; step-grandsons, James Terry, Matthew & Chandler, Mikey & Hunter; as well as great grandchildren, Madyson, Braxton & Kynlee Ledford, and Seth Painter.

The family will be receiving friends on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 from 5:00pm-7:00pm at Companion Funeral Home - Cleveland Chapel. Following the visitation, a celebration of life service will be held at 7:00pm with Bill Maynard officiating.

You are invited to share a personal memory of James, or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.