James Donald Kiel

November 4, 2012

James Donald Kiel, also known as Donald, J.D., Granddaddy and Grand-Don, 71, passed from this life on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, in Huntsville.

He was born in Madison on May 2, 1941, to Richard and Cleatis Kiel. He was raised and spent most of his life in the Tharptown community. He married Shirlene Kiel from on Oct. 9, 1965, having just celebrated 47 years together. He lived in Huntsville for the last 6 years.  Mr. Kiel was a Christian and attended the Church of Christ on Hughes Road in Madison. He retired from Reynolds Metals Company and Wise Alloys with 36 years of service.

Mr. Kiel is survived by his beloved wife, Shirlene; his children, Greg Kiel and wife, Kimberly, Huntsville, and Jeremy Kiel, Huntsville; six grandchildren, Blair, Brock, Molly, Blake, Madison and Hannah. He is also survived by his mother, Cleatis Kiel, Russellville; three brothers, Gerald Wade and wife, Betty, Glenn and wife, Patsy, and David and wife, Mildred, all of Russellville; along with many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Kiel.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m., with the funeral to follow at 2 p.m., at Pinkard Funeral Home.

Active pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be Leamon Sumerel, Doyle McDonald, Hollis Roden, Bobby Bowen, David Parker, David Crosswhite, J.C. Burgin, William Collum, Ben Breckwith, A.M. Jackson, Royce King, Wayne Melton, Dan Martin, J.L. Thigpen, Sam Stuart, Royce Thorton, Faye Watson, and William McLauchlin (Billy Mac).

The family would like to thank Dr. Karne, Dr. Estopinal, Dr. Schreeder and the Clearview Cancer Institute Staff for their special care.

There will be a private graveside service at Franklin Memory Gardens.