Kyle Z. Stephenson

BARRE - On November 10, 2021, an Angel from Heaven came down unexpectedly and took our beloved Kyle.

He was born on March 9, 1999, in Raleigh, N. C., the son of Chance Stephenson and Bonnie Taylor. Kyle attended schools in N.C. where he had lived most of his life, but he called Vermont his home. He was an exceptional athlete primarily in football, basketball, and most of all in baseball. He not only enjoyed playing sports, but he could name all the professional quarterbacks, several basketball and baseball players. He loved the “Carolina Blue” and kept statistics in all their accomplishments.

Kyle and his maternal grandmother Janet Taylor had a special connection in so many ways. His grandmother throwing baseballs to Kyle and footballs at the early age of 2 years old. Growing up Kyle's favorite basketball team UNC and his grandmother's favorite team Duke making a fun-loving teasing debate over which team was better. Kyle loved detailing cars and took pride in his work. His employers at the automobile dealerships regarded him as a dedicated-hard worker.

He enjoyed fishing whenever he had the opportunity to drop a line. Kyle loved animals, especially dogs. His favorite music to listen to was by rappers, Eminem and Mac Miller. His little sister, Caitlin will truly miss Kyle's beautiful calm blue eyes, contagious laugh, warm welcoming hugs and his constant loving teasing.

In his short 22 years, Kyle stole the hearts of all his extended family and many friends. His infectious smile will be missed by all those that knew and loved him. A passage that Kyle often referred to was Proverbs 18:12 "Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor."

He leaves his loving mother, Bonnie Taylor and her partner, Bruce Melvin; sister Caitlin Peacock; maternal grandmother, Janet Taylor of Washington, Vt.; paternal grandparents, James Stephenson of Garner, N.C., and Jane Johnson of Cary, N.C.; several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death (at the age of four and a half) by his father Chance Stephenson and his maternal grandfather, Richard Taylor.

A private service will be held for family members only and burial will be in Poplar Hill Cemetery in North Montpelier, Vt. There are no calling hours.

In memory of Kyle, contributions may be sent to the Central Vermont Humane Society or to Barre Youth Sports.