Dennis James Packard Sr.

Dennis James Packard, Sr., 74, passed away on March 20, 2025, in Huntsville, Alabama. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Dennis left behind a legacy of creativity, faith, and innovation that touched countless lives.

Born on April 26, 1950, in Syracuse, New York, Dennis was the son of Donald Packard Sr. and Roberta Packard. He pursued his education with passion and purpose, graduating from Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina in 1970. His thirst for knowledge led him to further studies at the Cleveland Institute of Electronics in Ohio from 1983 to 1985, where he earned an Associate of Science degree and a Certificate in Broadcast Engineering.

Dennis’s professional journey was as dynamic as it was impactful. A visionary filmmaker and storyteller at heart, he founded Castlight Productions and Born Again Films—ventures that reflected his deep Christian faith and artistic spirit. As a writer and director, he brought stories to life with authenticity and conviction.

His career also spanned roles as a consultant with Packard Engineering and positions at several esteemed organizations including Colsa Corporation, 3D Research Corp, SAIC—all based in Huntsville—as well as WZDX Fox 54 Huntsville; World Sports Enterprises and WVEU-TV in Atlanta; WAAY-TV Huntsville; H.G. Peters & Co. at Redstone Arsenal; Alabama A&M University in Normal; and NW/Haysland TV working side-by-side by with his father in Huntsville. Whether working behind the camera or engineering complex systems, Dennis approached every endeavor with intelligence and dedication.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dennis was a man of many passions. He was an avid collector of classic car models and enjoyed painting and playing disc golf. Above all else, he cherished time spent with his family. His sharp wit and warm laughter were constants at family gatherings—a source of joy for those who knew him best.

A man guided by faith throughout his life, Dennis was an active member of CrossPointe Church in Madison for over two decades. His commitment to his church community mirrored the values he lived by: compassion, service, creativity, and love.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife Virginia Packard; sons Dennis Packard Jr. and Brian Packard; grandchildren Morgan Packard, Evan Packard, Noah Packard, Sean Packard, Savannah Packard, and Uriel Packard; great-grandchildren Westin Davis, Eastin Davis, and Charlotte Davis; siblings Bruce Packard, Greg Packard, Jeff Packard, Donna Ahlander, Donald Packard Jr., and Melissa Robinson.

He was preceded in death by his parents Donald Sr. and Roberta Packard; siblings Mark Packard, Stephen Packard, John Packard, and Barbara Jean Hood.

A service to honor Dennis’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 2nd at CrossPointe Church located at 78 Hughes Rd., Madison, Alabama 35758. The service will begin at 2:00 PM and conclude at 3:00 PM.

Dennis James Packard Sr.’s life was one marked by imagination fueled by faith—a rare blend that inspired everyone around him. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire through the stories he told so well.