James Edson Kyle's Obituary
James Edson Kyle, age 83, of Columbus, formerly of Bexley and Buckeye, Arizona, died at home September 21, 2024, surrounded by those who loved him most - his daughters Gretchen and Whitney, son-in-law Benjamin King, and partner and best friend, Connie Tracy.
Jim was born in Athens, Ohio, July 23, 1941, to Gerald M. “Pinky” and Mona McKinley Kyle. A graduate of Athens High School, Jim received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from The Ohio State University. Following graduation, he served in the U.S. Army as a Specialist in Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam, before beginning a decades-long career at Owens-Illinois/Techneglas. He traveled extensively and particularly enjoyed visiting colleagues at Nippon Electric Glass in Japan.
As a member of First Congregational Church, Jim spent many Christmas mornings as a volunteer for Bethlehem on Broad Street and was a regular blood donor at the American Red Cross. An avid golfer, Jim enjoyed Buckeye tailgates, cheering for the Scarlet & Gray, and remained a committed Browns fan. More than anything, Jim enjoyed the company of his family and his many devoted friends.
Preceded in death by his parents and brother Tom, Jim is survived by his three daughters; brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Betty Kyle, of Diamond Springs, California; several cousins, nieces, and nephews including Kelly Kyle of Venice, Florida, Kimberly Kyle (Denise Izor) of Columbus, Gerald “Monty” (Catrina) Kyle of Monrovia, California, and Randolph (Tamara) Kyle of Diamond Springs, California; five grandchildren; one great grandchild and former wife, Linda “Molly” Kyle, of Gahanna.
A Celebration of Life open house and lunch will be held Sunday, November 3, from 12-2 in the Garden Room of Jeffrey Mansion, 165 N. Parkview Avenue, in Bexley. For those who would like to share their memories, a short program will begin at one o’clock.
To honor Jim’s memory, consider making a donation to the American Red Cross, First Congregational Church Legacy Fund, or Honor Flight Columbus. Or marvel at a stunning sunset, one of the many things he loved to do, and think of our beloved Dad.
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