Obituary: Kenneth Franklin Tyndall

Kenneth Franklin Tyndall of Kinston, NC, died peacefully in his sleep Friday, July 17, 2026, at the age of 90. Kenneth was born October 11, 1935, in Pink Hill NC and lived his entire adult life in Kinston.

Kenneth is survived by his loving wife, Nola Deane Quinn Tyndall of the home. He is also survived by his son, Ken Tyndall II (Sue Hardison) of Wendell, NC; daughter Anita Tyndall Dunn (Joseph Dunn) of Pine Bush, NY; only grandchild Anita Jordan Tyndall of Mebane, NC; and his brother Rommie Earl Tyndall of Pink Hill. He was preceded in death by his parents Iona and Frank Tyndall, and his brother Dempsey Wood Tyndall.

Kenneth went to work at H. Stadiem right out of high school, taking a two-year break to serve his country in the US Army. He took on the role of Controller for the store; a position he served in for nearly 50 years until he finally retired at age 70. During his tenure at H. Stadiem, Kenneth was a lifelong student, constantly taking classes to increase his knowledge. He received his associate’s degree in 1971 and continued night classes at the former Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1976 – the same year his son Ken graduated high school.

Kenneth and Nola became reacquainted in their 50’s and married in 1993. They built a life together centered around Nola’s love of decorating and entertaining, and Kenneth’s lifelong love of bluegrass music. They often had friends over for informal jam sessions, after which everyone would enjoy one of Nola’s homemade desserts.

Kenneth was an accomplished musician and few things made him happier than playing. Kenneth could play pretty much any instrument he touched – all by ear, with no formal training. In fact, when asked if he could read music, he once told someone “Not a lick.” During his life he played guitar, mandolin, banjo and piano. But his favorite instrument was the fiddle. Over the years, Kenneth played with numerous bluegrass and country bands, notable among these the Kinston Winter Bluegrass Band and the Bridgewater Band. Music was a gift he shared with both his children and his grandchild. Some of his favorite memories were having his daughter Anita sing while he played. He gave his granddaughter Jordan her first fiddle when she was only 9 – even arranging lessons for her with one of his friends.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the staff of Bayada Home Health Care, especially Valerie Pratt and Kelonda McNeil, Kenneth’s caregivers during the latter years of his life. Valerie and Kelonda patiently listened to Mr. Kenneth’s extensive selection of bad jokes and laughed every time. The family also wishes to thank the Gentiva Hospice team for their support and care during his final days.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 2 pm, at Edwards Funeral Home in Kinston, NC. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. A private graveside was held at Pinelawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.