Clariol Wise "Shorty" Sykes

Clariol Wise "Shorty" Sykes, 97, of Circleville, entered into Heaven on April 11, 2025 at Circleville Post Acute following an extended illness. He was born on October 21, 1927, in Pound, Virginia, the son of the late Alexander M. H. and Versia (Hale) Sykes. On November 2, 1949, he was united in marriage with his beloved wife, Mary Jane (Betz) Sykes, who preceded him in death on September 2, 2019.

Shorty is survived by his children, Steve (Pam) Sykes, of Circleville, Byron (Bonnie) Sykes, of Denton, Texas, Tom (Willa) Sykes, of Laurelville, and Linda (Don) Grate, of Circleville; grandchildren, Ryan (Christina) Sykes, Rachel (Eric) Houser, Russell (Brit) Sykes, Megan (Dan) Wise, Sarah Henderly, Tim Sykes, Adam (Lizz) Grate, Abram (Melissa) Grate, and Seth (Brittany) Grate; 24 great-grandchildren; and numerous other family members and friends whom he cherished.

Shorty was a 1945 graduate of Circleville High School and attended Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church, Kingston. He worked as a lifetime, self-employed residential builder in Pickaway County. Shorty was an avid outdoorsman that loved hunting including turkey, deer and other game. He was a devoted family man who loved spending time with his loved ones. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 17 at 2:00 p.m. at the HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston with Rev. Barry Bennett officiating. Burial will follow in Hitler Ludwig Cemetery, Circleville. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at Hill's. Condolences and floral gifts can be made on Shorty's online guest registry at www.hillfhkingston.com.