Kyle David Stradford, Sr. best known as Hooch and Hoochinee passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2021. He was born on November 5, 1971 in Elizabeth, NJ and was raised by his mother and her parents in Linden NJ.
Kyle is survived by his beloved wife Brandy Chevere, his sons Kyle D. Stradford Jr. and Zayier-Chevere Stradford, his daughters Kaliah Walcott and Kya Brielle Mahasin-Stradford, his grandchildren Kayden Deonte Jackson and Kyle D. Stradford III, his brother Craig Stradford, his sisters Dionne Phillips and Melody Payne, his aunt Beverly J. Jones and his uncle Byron L. Stradford and host of cousins, nieces and nephews.
He is predeceased by his beloved mother Andrea L. Stradford, his father Jerry Smith, his uncle Moses Stradford, Jr., his grandfather Moses Stradford and his adored grandmother Dorothy A. Stradford who he lovingly called Nanny.
Kyle graduated from Linden High School in 1990 where he carried on the football legacy of the Stradford family. There were numerous offers on the table for Division 1 universities but circumstances led him to enter as a freshman at Ramapo College where Kyle played middle linebacker. His powerful and positive impact would be felt from the very beginning. Kyle possessed an incredible speed and agility for his size that earned him playtime over veteran players. His “hits” on the field were said to be heard across the campus! He believed himself to be invincible. On many occasions, after his tackle, his teammates expected for the opposing player to be picked up off the field…in pieces! Kyle was described as a monster on the field and although the team struggled, he played every single game as if it were the playoffs in the NFL. He was dedicated to the game and his team. There was no stopping him once he put that uniform on. He was admired by his teammates and seen as a leader on the field. Kyle held his team accountable, making certain that they were giving just as much as he did and because they looked up to him and wanted to make him proud, they worked just as hard for him. He developed life long friendships and brotherhoods during his college years, including his PM brothers who continued to be his brothers until his unfortunate and untimely death.
After college, Kyle held various jobs and ended his career working for the Borough of Roselle Public Works. He was a hard worker, a friend to all and a trusted employee. He earned the respect of everyone he encountered. He treated his work just as he did each play on the field, with dedication, consistency and professionalism.
Off the field, Kyle was just the opposite. He was humble, caring and described by many as a gentle giant. Kyle was a loving husband and a dedicated father. His genuinely caring personality drew people to him and he was loved by so many. Kyle was truly one of a kind and always brought out the best in people. He was always ready to lend an ear when someone needed it, a confidant, and always a friend. He loved music and he loved to dance. Again, people wondered how his size and his dance moves worked so well together. How could this 6’ 2 giant possibly dance so smoothly on the dance floor. He was genuine, caring and a special person who was taken from us way too soon. He will be greatly missed by all who’s heart he touched. But if Kyle has taught us anything, it is to live each day with love and a smile for anyone who needs it.
Funeral arrangements for Kyle D. Stradford, Sr. will be held on Monday, May 10th, 2021 from 10 AM to 12 PM at McCracken Funeral Home, 2124 East St. George’s Ave, Linden NJ 07036. Funeral proceedings will immediately be held at Graceland Memorial Park, 1900 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, NJ 07033 beginning promptly at 12:30.
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