Marvin "Kyle" Smith

Marvin "Kyle" Smith passed away Tuesday, August 1, 2017, peacefully at home, going to glory after a hard battle with Frontotemporal dementia. Born September 7, 1942, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Kyle is survived by his wife of 53 years, Gaynell, his daughter, Amy Ivan (Michael) of Marietta, Georgia, his son, Daniel (Cindy) of Apopka, Florida, grandchildren, Jackson and Madeleine Ivan, his brother, O.T. Smith, Jr. (Phynessa) of Harriman, Tennessee, and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. O.T. Smith, Sr., of Knoxville, Tennessee, and George and Loy Hixson of Chattanooga, Tennessee. Kyle graduated from University of Tennessee at Knoxville, with a BS in Education, Master's degree in Education from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and a Specialist Degree in Administration from the University of Georgia.

Kyle moved to Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1963 to teach at Henry L. Barger Elementary, where he met his wife. They moved to Dalton in 1967, where he was employed with Dalton Public School System. Kyle served as principal of Crown School and City Park School. He later was employed by Whitfield County School System as principal of Valley Point Middle School, and as Director of Finances. He worked for Catoosa County Schools as Director of Facilities, Attendance, and Student Affairs.

Kyle assisted in the development of a Christian Camp (Hi-Life), started a breakfast program at Crown School, and spent many hours coaching his son in youth league basketball and baseball. His greatest pastime was boating on the Tennessee River with family and friends. He was named Man of the Year in 1970 by the Daily Citizen News for his volunteer service.

Kyle was a charter member of Grace Presbyterian Church, serving as chairman of the first Board of Deacons. He was instrumental in planning and building the church's facilities. He served in many capacities at the church during his lifetime.

The Smith family would like to take this time to express their appreciation to the staff of Heart-Lite Hospice for their care and support, and caregivers Chris Barrett, Virginia Hudson, and Carol Cannon. Also, many thanks to our neighbors and friends. Each of you will hold a very special place in our hearts.

There will be a Celebration of Life on September 17, 2017, from 3:00-5:00 pm at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2107 Threadmill Road, Dalton, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Presbyterian Church, which will be applied to the Mercy Fund, or Pregnant Dog Rescue (138 Covington Road, Griffin, Georgia 30223), where Gaynell and Amy are active fosters.