Lyle French Carty

Lyle French Carty, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on July 4, 2026, at Bristol Regional Medical Center, at the age of 91.

Born on September 6, 1934, Lyle grew up on a farm in Washington County, Virginia, where hard work and dedication were woven into the very fabric of his character. The values he learned there would guide him throughout his life—whether tending the land, providing for his family, or serving his country.

Lyle was a proud graduate of Damascus High School. Eager to refine his skills, he pursued further education and received his welding degree from Virginia Highlands Community College. His education was a testament to his strong work ethic and commitment to personal growth.

Answering the call to serve, Lyle enlisted in the United States Air Force. His time in the military was marked by integrity and bravery, qualities that would continue to define him long after his service. Returning home, Lyle continued to contribute to his community, serving as a policeman in Abingdon, Virginia during the 1960s—a role he approached with steadfastness and compassion.

For 25 years, Lyle worked as a fabricator and welder at Bristol Steel, displaying exceptional skill and reliability. He later worked for eight years at Columbus McKinnon, where he was respected and admired by colleagues, before retiring. These decades of dedication to his craft were paralleled by his devotion to his family, sharing with them not only the fruits of his labor but also the lessons of perseverance and integrity.

Lyle’s partnership with his beloved wife, Loretta, was the cornerstone of his life. Together, they raised tobacco and built a home that radiated warmth, laughter, and love. His family was always his greatest priority, and he delighted in their achievements and joys.

Known for his humor and kindness, Lyle was a wonderful storyteller. He had an unparalleled gift for spinning tales that always concluded with laughter, bringing family and friends together and leaving a legacy of cherished memories. To those who knew him, he was both the quiet strength and the spark that made every gathering brighter.

Lyle French Carty is survived by his devoted wife, Loretta Carty; his cherished son, French Carty, and daughter-in-law, Kim; his loving sisters, Wilma Caldwell and Lenora Carty; brothers, Larry Carty and Daryl Carty; granddaughter, Kaylee Davis; great-grandchildren, Ember Poore, Jessie Poore, Laurie Beth Johnson, and Gracie Ray Davis; and by numerous nieces and nephews who will treasure his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Maynard Carty; his mother, Alice Dorton Osborne Carty; his sister, Uneva Johnson; and his brother, Bob Carty.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Farris Funeral Service – Main Street Chapel, 427 E Main St, Abingdon, VA 24210. A funeral service will follow at the same location at 7:00 PM with Rev. Darius Bowman officiating. Graveside services will take place on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Rosedale Baptist Church, 26396 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24211.

Lyle’s life was one of principled work, loving relationships, and countless moments of laughter shared with those dearest to him. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and unite the family he so deeply cherished.