Tyson Clay Kell, age 46, of Carlyle, peacefully passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Medical Center in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 8, 1980, in Mount Vernon, Illinois, he was the cherished son of Roland Lee and Linda (Lusch) Kell.

After losing his mother at such a young age, he was lovingly raised and cared for by his God-sent ‘mom,’ Kathy Newkirk, who carried him through the many health challenges he faced over the years.

Tyson’s life was enriched by the love and companionship of his beloved fiancée, Jennifer Felchlia of Carlyle; his siblings, Crystal (Eddie Woodard) Helpingstine and Ryan (Andrea Lochhead) Kell. He was a proud and caring father figure to his bonus children: Chad (Lexie) Hunt, Bryce (Emma Gebke) Hunt, Cierra (Jake Harris) Hunt, Chezney (Chris) Steiner, Moriah (Cameron) Gelsinger, and Dawsyn Felchlia. His heart extended to his bonus grandchildren: Irelynn Hunt, Banks Harris, Henry Steiner, Adalynn Gelsinger, Gracelynn Gelsinger, and Emberlynn Gelsinger. Tyson’s family circle further included nieces and nephews, Lindsay (Sean Veale) Helpingstine, Abigail (Jaden Leake) Helpingstine, Elina Kell, and Annabelle Kell, as well as the many cousins he shared fond childhood memories with. Close friends Eric Snyder and Rick Bullard, held a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, nephew Brandon Helpingstine, and sister-in-law Lisa Kell.

A passionate sports fan, Tyson never missed a chance to cheer for the Chicago Cubs and the Centralia Orphans Basketball team. He enjoyed rounds of golf with his buddies and had a fondness for the casino, where his winnings often fueled memorable cruises. Traveling was a source of great happiness for Tyson, especially enjoying his favorite places to eat along the way.

Tyson was a dedicated professional, holding every endorsement imaginable for driver’s licenses, which he used in his role as a transport driver for LOVES. His commitment extended to serving his community as a former Captain with the Sandoval Fire Department, where he proudly dedicated over 15 years to protecting and supporting those around him. His loyal companions, his cherished dogs Ellie Mae and Mylee, were always by his side.

Funeral services to celebrate Tyson’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle, with Rev. Sarah Wanck and Rev. Jason McIntosh officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia.

Visitation will take place from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Friday, April 17, 2026, and again on Saturday from 9:00 AM until the time of services, both at Nordike Funeral Home in Carlyle.

In memory of Tyson, memorial contributions are kindly suggested to the ACPMP Foundation and 2nd Wind Lung Transplant Association using the links provided, or memorials will be received at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.

2nd Wind: https://www.2ndwind.org/donate/