Leonard Willie Kyle

Leonard Kyle was born on June 30, 1935, in Beaumont, Texas. He was the oldest of seven children, born to David Kyle and Rose Jones. After losing his mother at the age of two, Leonard was lovingly raised by his stepmother, Hester Mae Kyle, who became the mother-figure that guided him through life.

During Leonard’s elementary school years, he was extremely fond of boots. This earned him the nickname “Bootsy,” and his passion for boots became a playful part of his identity. The Jones’s side of the family all knew Leonard as “Bootsy.” The Jones’s side of the family also played an instrumental role in his upbringing, with them serving as key influences throughout his life. Most distinctly, his uncles encouraged and inspired him to leave Texas and join them in California, where greater opportunities awaited him.

At the age of 22, Leonard moved to Los Angeles, California. In time, he returned to Texas to marry the love of his life, Betty Kyle, who was still living in Beaumont. They married in 1958 and built a beautiful life together in California. They were blessed with two children, Mark Kyle and Michael Kyle. Leonard also shared a special bond with his daughter from Texas, Tonnietta Jackson.

Leonard supported his family as a skilled Meat Cutter, working for numerous grocery store operations throughout his career. After graduating from Meat Cutters School, he quickly advanced to become a department manager. In that role, he developed, trained, and mentored many young employees, helping them grow into leadership and management positions of their own. Leonard was proud to be the first African American to hold a department management position within the chain. This achievement reflected both his talent and his determination.

Leonard’s life was always centered around his deep faith in God. Early in his life, he was a member of the Pentecostal Christian community, where his spiritual foundation was formed. After marrying Betty, he embraced her faith tradition and became a devout Catholic Christian. His commitment to God remained constant throughout his life, shaping his values, his compassion, and the way he cared for others.

As a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Leonard excelled to the 4th Degree, a distinction that reflected his dedication to service, faith, and community. He was also an enthusiastic member of the church choir, where he found joy in lifting his voice in praise. Leonard loved participating in charity events and took great pride in making a meaningful impact on those in need. His generosity, humility, and unwavering faith touched countless lives.

In his spare time, Leonard enjoyed golfing and traveling. One of the highlights of his year was participating in the annual golf trip with the Texas Connection Group, where he was affectionately known as “Pops.” The nickname reflected the wisdom, warmth, and steady presence he brought to the group, and he embraced the role wholeheartedly. His easygoing spirit, humor, and guidance made him a beloved figure both on and off the golf course.

Leonard also found great joy in gardening and landscaping around his home. He spent countless hours perfecting the professional look of his yard, taking pride in every detail. He was particularly proud of his roses, tending to them with the same patience and care he showed in every part of his life. His dedication to creating a beautiful outdoor space reflected the craftsmanship, discipline, and quiet joy that defined him.

He also took great pride in the vehicles he owned. His car collection included Cadillacs, a Porsche, a Volvo, several Chevrolets and Fords, and a Datsun 280Z. His cars were always polished and spotless and kept in such pristine condition that they could have been entered into any competition. Maintaining his vehicles was more than a hobby: it was another expression of his discipline, pride, and love for excellence.

For everyone who had the blessing of encountering Leonard during their lifetime, his spirit will continue to live within you. The kindness, warmth, and genuine care he shared so freely will remain with us forever. His gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome is something we can all strive to carry forward. Leonard showed us what it means to love openly, to embrace others fully, and to create community wherever he went.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, David Kyle, Rose Kyle, and Hester Kyle; his son, Michael Kyle; his brothers, Lee Kyle, John Kyle, and Luther Kyle; and his sisters, Billie Jean Kyle and Raynell Kyle.

He is survived by his loving family: his devoted wife of 67 years, Betty Jo Kyle; his children, Mark Kyle (Cathy Kyle) and Tonnietta Jackson (JB Jackson); his brother, Charles Kyle (Bessie Kyle); and his sister-in-law, Sallie Kyle. Leonard is also cherished by his grandchildren: Jessica Kyle (Anthony Alonge), Marcus Kyle (Nicole Kyle), Emmanuel Jackson, Leah Jackson, David Jackson (Jessica Jackson), and Jared Jackson (Kaisha Jackson). Leonard is also blessed with great-grandchildren: Aleana Jackson, Jordynne Jackson, Bri Alonge, and Nekoda Jackson. He is further survived by his sisters-in-law, his brother-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

Visitation will be held at Desert View, 11478 AMARGOSA RD, VICTORVILLE, CA 92392, on April 6, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will take place at Holy Innocents Catholic Church, 13230 El Evado Rd, Victorville, CA 92392, on April 7, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm.

A Committal Service will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mortuary, 5835 W Slauson Ave, Culver City, CA 90230, on April 8, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:00 am.