Kyle Lerone Dedman Sr.

Kyle Lerone Dedman, Sr., was born in Marshall, Texas on September 29, 1954. Kyle was the third child born to the union of Henry A. Dedman and Dorothye Micheaux Dedman. His mother describes him as a strong-willed baby that required things to be done a certain way, “his way.” As a demonstration of their faith, Kyle’s parents, had him baptized at St. Beulah Methodist Church at an early age.

Kyle attended public schools in the Pittsburg Independent School District, Pittsburg, Texas. During his primary and secondary educational years Kyle made significant contributions. He was an extraordinary percussionist! Kyle made history during his 4th grade school year; when he auditioned and was chosen to be the youngest featured percussionist for the Frederick Douglass High School band. He still remains the youngest and only band member in the school’s history to play the snares, timpani, congas, xylophone, piano and flute. He was an award-winning composer of drum cadences for marching bands throughout Pittsburg Independent School District. In addition to his exemplary ability to play multiple instruments, Kyle was also anointed with a natural instrument, his beautiful tenor vocal range. His vocals were often compared to Stevie Wonder and Howard Hewett.

After Kyle graduated from high school, he moved to Dallas, Texas and began working for Texas Instruments. In 1976, he enlisted in the United States Army and began his residency in Anchorage, Alaska. His military service was a testament to his deep sense of duty. After his time in the military, he remained in Anchorage and continued his life as a civil servant. Kyle worked 44 years for The United States Postal Service (USPS), the second largest federal employer in the country. One of his colleagues shared with the family, “Kyle found joy in making others happy and believed that the greatest purpose in life was to serve. His actions reflected a life lived for others. This was a rare and beautiful quality that has left a lasting impression on all who knew him.” His colleagues admired him for his leadership, integrity, work ethic, and unyielding commitment to the well-being of others.

Beyond the roles/titles of Veteran and Civil Servant, Kyle was a dutiful son and brother. Kyle was raised by his devoted mother, Dorothye, who worked tirelessly to provide for him and his siblings. Growing up with his three siblings, Kyle learned the values of hard work, selflessness, compromise, resilience, and the importance of family. As the oldest son, Kyle instinctively shouldered the burden and self-described privilege of being “the man of the house.” Despite the challenges, Kyle became a pillar of strength, always striving to make a better life for himself and those around him. He and his family shared a household full of faith, music, love, laughter, and met needs. His mother and siblings revered him and over the years that reverence grew. They often leaned on him as an advisor, protector, advocate, and technical support provider for all maintenance, financial and technology issues. Kyle would

often spend countless hours trouble shooting regardless of where he was in the world. These shared experiences with his mother and siblings shaped his character. Their bond was strong, and the love and support of and for his family were the foundation of his life.

Kyle was a man whose life was defined by love, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to his family. “Family” to Kyle, extended beyond DNA. If he loved you, he embraced you as FAMILY. Kyle was the proud father of four children, grandfather of eight grandchildren and surrogate father to countless individuals. He took immense pride in his various roles; guiding each person with wisdom, unconditional love, constant support, and accountability checks. His dedication to their happiness and success was unwavering, and his presence was a pillar of strength. His selflessness, compassion, and open heart were the glue that held his family together, although miles separated them. He was a constant source of support for all of his family. Though he was a man of many passions and hobbies, his family gave him the greatest sense of purpose. Whether through small acts of kindness or grand gestures of love, he made it his mission to nurture in all the ways in which he was capable. For his sons, grandsons, and surrogate sons, he modeled a strong work ethic, contingency planning, independence, and accountability. For his daughters, granddaughters, and surrogate daughters he modeled the same; but peppered in some “Girl Dad” flare. He showed his flaws and used them as lessons. He was vulnerable. He pursued their interests and made them feel seen, heard, and cared for. Kyle was a chameleon for his children and grandchildren. He was both a soft place to land and a firm rock on which to stand. He was a confidante, wise council, coach and motivator, cheerleader, job recruiter, lender, purchaser, homecoming escort and karaoke champion. Kyle embraced the role of raising and nurturing “individuals” with grace, candor, warmth, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Kyle was a man of great courage and resilience, who faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. He faced each challenge with strength, grace, and an unbreakable spirit. Despite battling a series of illnesses over the years, including Psoriasis, Hepatitis B and C, Leukemia, Prostate Cancer, Congestive Heart Failure, Chronic Anemia, Covid and Bi-Lateral Pneumonia, Kyle never let these challenges define him. He continued to embrace life fully, bringing joy, laughter, and kindness to everyone who knew him. His perseverance in the face of adversity was a testament to his character, and his positive outlook inspired all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. He found comfort and strength in the love of his family and in his faith. His family and faith were sources of hope and motivation for him during the most difficult moments. He was not only a fighter, but he was also a survivor and a thriver. After his initial cancer diagnosis in 2005. He enjoyed over fifteen years of being cancer free!

Kyle was never afraid to take risks, whether in his career, personal life, or pursuits. He embraced the unknown with courage and excitement, believing that life was meant to be

lived fully. Nearing retirement he began his quest for where he would like to visit during his retirement years. Prior to the pandemic Kyle made several trips to the Philippines. He fell in love with the people, the culture, and the cost effective “simple living.” In 2022, Kyle retired and traveled to the Philippines to embark on what would be his last adventure.

Whether it was a health challenge, an impromptu road trip, or simply following his heart, Kyle approached every challenge with a fearless attitude and unwavering determination.

His independent nature and refusal to conform to expectations defined who he was. He was unapologetically himself, and those who knew him admired his ability to chart his own path and find joy in the journey. His adventurous soul was reflected in everything he did, and he inspired those around him to step outside their comfort zones and live boldly.

Kyle was a free spirit. He had a zest for life that was infectious to those around him. Whether it was through his love for nature, his spontaneous adventures, or his deep conversations about life’s mysteries, Kyle embraced the world with an open heart and an open mind. He lived a life full of purpose and passion. While Kyle left us far too soon, his memory will live on through the love he shared and the unforgettable moments he created. Kyle’s legacy will continue to live on through the love and joy he brought into the world. His legacy of living fearlessly, loving deeply, and embracing life with open arms will continue to inspire us all.

He leaves behind a family and community that loved him dearly, as well as countless friends whose lives he touched with his genuine kindness and welcoming spirit. He is survived by his mother, Dorothye Dedman; his former wife Omie Dedman and their children Kyle Lerone Dedman II, Sephton Dedman (Alecia); his former wife Gwendolyn Dedman and their children Nikita Comstock (David), Akyra Courtright (Sara); his grandchildren, Kyle Lerone Dedman III, Reece Candaele, Mikell Dedman, Gavin Dedman, Rhianna Dedman, Ella Anderson, Jordyn Gray, Quinlan Gray and Kamiko Courtright; his siblings, Mavis Dedmon, Jan Dedman, Leah Woods (David), Jennifer Ryan (Marvin); surrogate sisters, Mary Dale Craven (Herbert) and Joyce Tolliver (James); an uncle, James Patterson (Bessie), aunts, Elaine Patterson, Melva Patterson and Helen Stevenson; one niece, Michi Bruns Brown (Irving), two nephews, Kenlé Dedman (Dawn) and Eric Bruns (Terry), and three great-nieces, Mycah Clay, Kennedy Dedman and Madison Dedman; a host of other cousins, relatives and friends.

Kyle was preceded in death by his grandparents, T.W. Micheaux, Sybil Helton Micheaux Patterson, Leroy Patterson Sr. Queen Esther Dedman and O.D. Dedman Sr.; father, Henry A. Dedman; sister, Dionne Dedman; stepfather, Cecil P. Garrett; uncles Otis Dutch Dedman, Darl Dedman, Larry Dedman, Leroy Patterson Jr., Kenneth Patterson Sr., and Charles Patterson; and aunts, Julia Moore, and Andra Patterson.

A virtual copy of Kyle Lerone Dedman Sr.'s service program.

https://theprintstudiotx.com/kyle-dedman-1954-2024/