KIT ‘KB’ SYKES

Kit lived life to the fullest, leaving behind many beloved friends and family. He was born to Brice Arrington and Gladys Bowman Sykes of Dickenson County, spent the early part of his life in Haysi and graduated from Haysi High School in 1961. Kit worked 30 years for General Motors in Warren, Mi., and retired to Powell Valley Shores in Speedwell, Tn.

A true Gemini, Kit’s happiest moments were seemingly opposites of one another. On one side, he was happiest alone in the forest surrounded by nothing but quiet nature, and on the other side, he was happiest in the spotlight on stage singing his heart out for a huge crowd kicking up their heels on the dance floor. His proudest moments included his Army enlistment from 1961 to 1964, his service and dedication to the Scottish Rite Masons, attaining 32nd degree and Past Master of La Follette Lodge #623 in Tennessee (now Campbell County Lodge #778), and his work transporting burn victims to their treatments at Shriner’s Hospitals for Children.

Kit is survived by his loving daughters Pam and Becky; four amazingly gifted and kind grandchildren; sisters, Sue, Ronda, and Elizabeth; brother, Johnny, and countless friends. He brought beauty into the world through his music. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.