Ricky A. Kyle

Ricky A. Kyle, 75, of China Grove, passed away Monday, June 2, 2025, at his residence with family by his side. He was born February 10, 1950, in Wilkes County, NC, to the late William Kyle and Cecile Parsons.

Ricky was a man of quiet strength. He didn’t have to say he loved you — he showed it through his actions every day. A man’s man with a gentle heart, Ricky led by example in how he lived, loved, and worked. He was a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and a faithful servant of the Lord.

For many years, Ricky was an active member of Gospel Lighthouse Church in China Grove, where he attended regularly until his battle with COPD made it too difficult to continue. During his time there, he served others in numerous ways and was deeply committed to the life of the church. His faith remained strong, and he loved the Lord with all his heart.

Ricky was also known for his incredible work ethic. He found joy in hard work and helping others, a quality that brought happiness and inspiration to those around him. He had an infectious personality and a natural gift for making others laugh and feel comfortable. People simply loved to be around him.

A lifelong NASCAR fan, Ricky rarely missed a race and loved cars ever since he was a young boy. He had a remarkable knowledge of them and worked as a mechanic in his younger years, a skill and passion that stayed with him throughout his life.

He was married to Eva Kyle, his beloved wife of nearly 33 years, at the time of his passing. They were married on September 18, 1992.

Those left to cherish his memory include: his wife, Eva Kyle; his daughter Pamela (David) Barbour; his stepson Bradley Wallace, whom he considered a son; and his stepdaughter Natalie (Brandon) Pegram, whom he cherished as a daughter. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Andrew Barbour, Margaux Barbour, Cadence Pegram, and William Pegram; and his sister, Geraldine Jones.

Ricky’s family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 4:00 to 5:00 PM at Whitley’s Funeral Home, 1748 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis, NC. A funeral service will follow at 5:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Roger Bostic, assisted by Pastor Joey Spry. A private family burial will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park.

He has taken his final checkered flag here on earth, but his race is won in glory. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.