James Lyle Kinsey

James Lyle Kinsey, 82, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, July 28, 2025. Jim was known affectionately as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. He lived in Lake Odessa, Michigan where he resided with his wife, Elizabeth. Jim lived life with boundless energy, curiosity, and a deep love for his family, friends, neighbors, and the world around him. His infectious spirit, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering kindness left a permanent mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on February 9, 1943, Jim was the first born son of William Forest Kinsey and Margaret Elizabeth (Dacken) Kinsey. He graduated from Mt. Morris High School (Mt. Morris, Illinois) in 1961, and from Manchester College (North Manchester, Indiana) with a BA in Religion and Philosophy in 1965. In 1968 he completed his Master of Divinity at Bethany Theological Seminary (Oak Brook, Illinois).

In 1965, Jim married Barbara Ellen Pyle from Detroit, Michigan. He and Barbara had two daughters, Lisa Janel (1970) and Jennifer Marie (1973). Jim’s first pastorate was in Marion, Ohio at First Church of the Brethren, 1968-1974. From 1974-1983, he was the pastor of Hope Church of the Brethren in Freeport, Michigan, where he is still a member and valued contributor. His wife, Barbara, passed away in 1979. Jim married Elizabeth Ann Polzin in 1980 with whom he enjoyed 45 years of marriage. In 1982, they had a son, Noah James.

From 1983-1999, Jim served as the District Minister-Executive for the Michigan District Church of the Brethren. During this time he also served as Co-Executive for Ministry in the Church of the Brethren General Offices. This ended in 2000 when he became a Consultant for the Congregational Life Offices of the Church of the Brethren. He retired from ministry in 2008.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Kinsey; parents, William and Margaret Kinsey; in-laws, Kenneth and Bessie Pyle; in-laws, Russell and Bertha Polzin; step-parent, Mary Kinsey, and sister, Sharon Sitler.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Kinsey; daughter, Lisa Kinsey Callaway (Douglas), and their children, Alexa Callaway (fiance, Taylor Stults), and Bailey Callaway (boyfriend, Tyler Omness); daughter, Jennifer Riccius (David), and their children, Anna Riccius, Grace Meyer (John), and great-grandchild, Archie Meyer; and Jim’s son, Noah Kinsey (girlfriend, Jennifer James). He is also survived by his brothers in-law, Jim Pyle (Carol), Jim Sitler (Sue), Frank Polzin (Candy); his sister in-law, Stephanie Polzin; his step-siblings Dale Penner (Ntfombi), Dean Penner (Emily), Susan Penner (Toshio), and Sara Morgan (Robert); and his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, neighbors, and friends.

Jim’s life was a celebration of joy, discovery, and connection. He found delight in the simplest moments and had an extraordinary ability to make others feel valued and seen. Whether through his deep conversations on spirituality, his love of music and theater, or his lively discussions on books, Jim was always eager to engage and learn. His passion for life never waned, and even in his final weeks, people were amazed by his sharp mind, quick wit, and curiosity about the world.

Jim’s love for his family was unwavering. He was ever-present in the lives of his children and grandchildren, attending recitals, school events, sports games, and more with unparalleled enthusiasm. His big, open-mouthed smile and the t-shirts he proudly wore—often representing his family’s schools—became symbols of his pride and affection. Neighbors were like family to Jim. The continual friendship and constant support of Pat and Mary Flannery was something that he deeply treasured. Jim was a devoted husband. He often remarked that every day spent with his beloved wife, Libby, was a gift, and he cherished their time together, never taking a single moment for granted.

Jim’s compassion and sensitivity to others were at the core of who he was. He was always ready with an encouraging word, making people feel special and loved. His witty and quirky greetings when someone (especially grandchildren) entered the house were part of his unique charm. “Good morning!” could be expected as a greeting no matter what time of day it was. He had a special affinity for turning anything into a “dad joke”. He was a master of the pun!

Jim’s life included a wide-range of interests and activities. A gourmet chef at heart, Jim delighted in preparing delicious meals and sharing them with family and friends. He often created beautiful and memorable meals that earned many accolades from those around the table. An avid reader, he had a lifelong love of books, constantly devouring novels and works that piqued his interest. This love of literature also fueled his creative side—he was an accomplished writer. He had a passion for storytelling, and was adept at using aspects of his life and the places he lived to create his fictional tales. He delighted in sharing his stories and poetry with a local writer’s group, as well as with his family and friends. His writing was a reflection of his vast experiences, rich imagination, and deep emotions. Jim’s poetry was especially heartfelt when he wrote for others. Writing was his “love language”.

Jim identified himself as a geologist, arborist, and ecologist who loved the natural world. Stewardship of the earth was very important to him. He had great concern for farming practices that were not earth-nurturing. He never lost the farmboy in himself. He would often share memories of his childhood growing flowers, farming, and raising animals. Jim also had a special interest in birds—his love of avian life is evident in his home, where the family room is dedicated to nature. He loved taking photos of birds, especially on Chincoteague Island, Virginia. He collected and commissioned carvings of various birds by a favorite artist on the island. Jim was especially known for his vast rock collection. Rock hounding was a hobby of his for many years. He always found beauty and wonder in the simplest of things.

Jim’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and deep connection. He was a man who lived boldly, thought deeply, and loved generously. His intellectual curiosity, creative passions, and care for others made him a one-of-a-kind individual whose memory will continue to inspire us all. Though we will miss him more than words can express, we are grateful for the time we had with him, and will carry his memory in our hearts forever.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 23, at Sunfield United Brethren Church (8436 W Grand Ledge Hwy, Sunfield, MI 48890). Visitation will begin at 9:00 am, and a luncheon will be served following the service. All who knew Jim are invited to join the family as they honor Jim’s vibrant life and the incredible impact he had on everyone who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Heifer International or Church World Service/CROP in Jim’s memory.

WHISTLING IN SPRING

j. lyle kinsey - Celtic Poet

3/16/25

Mama house finch, plainly attired,

Sat on my porch rail, inspired,

Loudly whistled her varied tune,

Sang to warming air’s balloon,

Freely praised the gifts of Iife,

Eyes darted for signs of strife.

If in life’s dismay, I might sing,

Whistle love to a Risen King,

Dance through sin’s alloy,

Take flight, the air to buoy,

Praise God for breath of life,

Keep loving when hate is rife.

Whistled while teary eyed,

Buzzing lips, my song died,

Remembered the Holy Cross,

Joy seemed gone, I’m at a loss,

Grasped a cross, dragged along,

Sang the Holy Spirit’s song.

With the finch, plainly attired,

Leaned on porch rail, inspired,

Loudly sang a varied tune,

Sounded like a cooing loon,

Praised the many gifts of life,

Rose above the dirty strife.

Through the cross it is done,

Creator, Christ, and Holy One!

Amen!