Kingsley Gortner Sears, Jr.

Kingsley Gortner Sears, Jr., age 98, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, after a brief illness at Corwell Hospital in Troy, Michigan. Born on December 8, 1927, in Berea, Ohio, Kingsley lived a long and fulfilling life marked by dedication to education, music, family, and community.

Kingsley began his career in education as a teacher in Bangor, Michigan. His passion for learning and leadership led him to positions in Kalamazoo before he settled the family in Warren in 1963. There, he was appointed Director of Personnel for Warren Consolidated Schools—a role he held with distinction until his retirement in 1986. Retirement did not slow him down; instead, it allowed him to devote more time to his lifelong love of music and his commitment to community service and volunteerism.

Music was a central thread throughout Kingsley's life. A gifted tuba player, he performed with the Warren Concert Band and brought joy to many through his musical talents. He also served as choir director for both the Warren Community Choir and Celtic Cross Presbyterian Church for over three decades. A longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Warren, Kingsley remained active in both congregations—attending the Methodist church during summer months while fulfilling his mission role directing the choir at Celtic Cross. Even after retiring from directing choirs, he continued to sing and play tuba at the Methodist church services.

Kingsley's enthusiasm extended beyond music into sports and outdoor activities. In earlier years, he enjoyed tennis matches and spirited church softball games. He could often be found playing volleyball or "pepper" with the kids in the backyard. Later in life, he took up running to improve his health—a pursuit that led him to participate in the Detroit Marathon, regular weekend runs and made several memorable runs across the Mackinac Bridge.

Family vacations were a cherished tradition for Kingsley and his loved ones. Each summer was spent exploring campgrounds across the United States—visiting national landmarks and creating treasured memories that would last a lifetime.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: sons Schuyler Thomas Sears "Tom" and William (Jill) Sears; daughter Kathy (Lee) Byerly; grandchildren Rebecca (Ken) Kuptz, Jason (Bridget) Sears, and Jason Haithcox; and great-grandchildren Kingsley and Ruby Sears as well as beloved exchange students Clara Cunha and Sabina Schmincke and his many devoted friends including tuba partner, Carl Sobolewski.

Kingsley was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lurline Ellen Sears; his parents Kingsley G. Sears Sr. and Ruby Wilkinson Sears; as well as numerous cousins and relatives who were dear to him.

Those who knew Kingsley will remember him as funny, intelligent, and endlessly curious—a man who could burst into song with a musical memory or share a perfectly timed limerick or story that brought laughter to any room. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with people through genuine interest and thoughtful recollection of details about their lives. His vast knowledge made him a trusted source of information on countless topics.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 05:00 PM to 08:00 PM and on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home 29440 Ryan Rd, Warren Michigan.

A Funeral Service celebrating Kingsley's life will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Warren 5005 Chicago Rd., Warren, Michigan. Greet the family and visit prior to service at 10:00 AM.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched through education, music, friendship, and love.

Donations in his memory can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Warren, the Warren Symphony Orchestra, or the Warren Concert Band.

Please share a memory, thought, or prayer with the family here on Kingsley's online guestbook.