Carol Dean Kyle

Carol Dean Kyle went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 2, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama lovingly surrounded by his family. Born in Columbus, Georgia, on March 27, 1941, Dean's life was characterized by his passion for flying and his love for family. His legacy is carried on by his children, Deana Kyle, Anitra (Earl) Hitchcock, and Sam (Lindsey) Kyle; and his cherished grandchildren, Haleigh Butz, Daniel (Jessica) Hitchcock, Hayden Butz, Harley Butz, William (Cherisa) Hitchcock, Baylea Kyle, Lynn (Alex) Mest, and Luke (Nealy) Kyle, along with twelve great-grandchildren. Dean was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Gladys Bozeman Kyle, his brother Dale Kyle, and his niece, Michelle Kyle.

Dean's early life in Columbus laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. After graduating, he proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran, flying C-130 aircraft in the Air Force for four years. His skills in the sky led him to a 13-year career with Pan Am, where he flew all over the world, fulfilling his childhood dream as his first word had been "plane." Dean's love for aviation continued as he spent 20 years crop dusting, a testament to his dedication to flying. Dean’s aviation career spanned a glorious 34 years.

Apart from his time in the skies, Dean was a talented machinist. He owned and operated a machine shop in Dothan, where he reveled in the art of crafting and using lathes. His move back to Columbus was marked by care for his mother, during which he also drove a train at Callaway Gardens. Embracing his love for locomotives, Dean built his own train ride to bring joy to birthday parties and special events. In 2020, he returned to Dothan to live with his daughter and her husband, where he continued to pursue his passions.

Dean's interests and talents were as vast as the skies he once navigated. A tinkerer at heart, he had the remarkable ability to build anything he set his mind to. His love for Alabama football was matched only by his determination and playful spirit, often remembered for his love of pranks—though he never quite enjoyed being on the receiving end. An avid collector, Dean found joy in acquiring treasures on eBay, and his philosophy of never wasting anything spoke to his practical and resourceful nature.

A man of many talents, Dean could play the organ and had an ear for music that enriched the lives of those around him. His entrepreneurial spirit was always at work, as he was perpetually finding ways to make a dollar. Above all, Dean was a true patriot, deeply committed to the prosperity and greatness of his country.

Dean Kyle was indeed adventurous, intelligent, and wise—a man whose life was as full and varied as the many aircraft he piloted. His stories and exploits will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

A graveside service to honor the remarkable life of Dean Kyle will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Park with Jim Corley officiating. His spirit takes flight into eternity, leaving behind a trail of memories and inspiration for all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Dean, your legacy will continue to soar in our hearts forever.