Raymond “Kyle” Linson, beloved son, brother, and friend to many, was born on September 14, 1969 in West Plains, Missouri to Bill and Beverly (Lowe) Linson. On July 28, 2021, he accepted his promotion to direct a glorious choir in heaven at the age of 51.
Kyle graduated from Arkansas State University with a degree in secondary vocal music education. He taught high school choir at Sikeston High School, while also serving as music director for local churches and community choirs. Shortly thereafter he pursued his dream of directing choral music in the Methodist church and accepted a call to lead at St. John’s United Methodist in Memphis, Tennessee. Next, he accepted an appointment to Central United Methodist in Kansas City. His ultimate goal was to serve as music director at the First United Methodist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas, to which he accepted the call in 2013.
In his mother’s words, “Kyle knew everybody. He never met a stranger.” And, as his legion of friends throughout the midwest and south will attest, this is true. Kyle was incredibly gifted at getting things done on a grand scheme. His talent for taking small ensembles and growing and developing them into world-class choirs, one of which performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City, was truly inspirational.
Kyle is survived by his parents, Bill and Beverly of West Plains, MO, a brother Craig (Marci) of Blue Eye, MO, nieces Katie (Mason) Farris and grand-niece Goldie, of Lynchburg, VA, and Tressa (Jeremy) Asbury, of Joplin, MO. Kyle is also survived by a very loving group of friends, and if we began to call them by name, it would take forever. However, the family is grateful for Dennis Horn, Connie Hartline, Laine Harber, Pastor Donna Hankins, Justin Donaldson, Pastor David Freeman, and Darrin Clanton, among many, many others.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents Bill and Tressa Linson and Raymond and Dorothy Lowe.
While our hearts are broken and our tears flow freely, we know that every teardrop is physical evidence of the fullness of our hearts; hearts abundantly filled with joyful memories of Kyle.
Kyle’s dear friends in Little Rock are planning a celebration of his life to be announced at a later date.
The family will have a private burial service on August 2 with services under the direction of Carter Funeral Home, Inc. in Thayer, Missouri.
The family asks in lieu of flowers for memorial gifts to First United Methodist Church, 723 Center Street, Little Rock, AR 72201.
July 31, 2021 @ 5:35 pm
Bill, Beverly, Craig/Marci and Family,
We want to extend our deepest sympathy to all of you on Kyle’s passing. Kyle was so much joy to be around and Never meeting a Stranger is Correct about him. He was always friendly, smiling, having fun and making others he was around relaxed, at ease, etc. He will be missed! During this difficult time we will be praying for all of you daily and may God comfort, encourage, strengthen, and give each of you peace. May God bless all of you.
In Christian Love,
Norris/Ivene Cozort
Tim, Amber(Cozort), and Corby Redburn
July 31, 2021 @ 8:29 pm
Our hearts are broken to learn of Kyle’s passing. He was a wonderful man with a heart of gold. Always a lively and fun guy, the world is a more somber and sad place without Kyle’s sweet spirit. Our deepest condolences to Bill and Beverly, Craig and Marci, and the rest of his extended and loving family. May your wonderful memories sustain you through this time. Love to all of you.
August 1, 2021 @ 2:16 pm
Beverly, so sorry to read about your son’s death. It must be so hard. May God comfort you in your sorrow.
Sally Hill (Nina’s friend)
August 1, 2021 @ 2:51 pm
Just so sorry for his family, Bill and Bev this is almost too much. In his bio, Kyle did a lot of great things for a lot of people who’s lives he made better for having known him. Again, my deepest sympathy.
August 1, 2021 @ 7:35 pm
So sorry to hear about Kyle. He spread sunshine everywhere he went. He will be dearly missed. Sending deepest sympathies and prayers to Beverly and Bill, Craig and Marci.
Sincerely, Harry and Julie Chapin
Ozark, MO
August 2, 2021 @ 11:37 am
Bill & Beverly we are so sorry forthe loss of your son, Kyle! loss!
Our toughts & prayers are with you & your family.
August 6, 2021 @ 1:52 pm
Kyle,
You were amazing even at our fourth grade musical when you had a lead role and totally nailed it. Everything after then, was even better than the year before. Everybody loved you and you garnered so much respect. Thank you for what you brought to the world and that you made all of us, better and happier.