We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rev. Samuel Billy Kyles. Our deepest condolences to the Kyles family.

Rev. Kyles was a beloved member of the National Civil Rights Museum family and a lifelong member of the National Civil Rights Museum board of directors. As a lasting tribute, he will be named board member emeritus.

 

In death, as in life, Rev. Kyles' highly acclaimed story as the last “witness" to Dr. King’s final hours will remain in the The Mountaintop Theatre at the museum as a permanent exhibit. We will always remember him saying, “You can kill the dreamer, but you can not kill the dream.”

 

Rev. Kyles remained on the frontline for justice and equality, a tremendous civil rights activist. He was a man of great courage, compassion and faith.

 

Rest dear friend until we meet again.

 

– The Board and Staff of the National Civil Rights Museum