Kenneth King

Kenneth King, age 86, of Rickman, TN, has inspired us for the past few years with his strength, courage, faith, perseverance, and love as he struggled with so many complex medical issues then transitioned into the arms of The Great Physician, his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. He was born on Friday, January 28, 1938, in Monterey, TN, to the late Roy Manson and Pauline Phipps King. He was preceded in death by a son, Marty Wesley King; stepson, Jack Ray Jr.; sister, Anna Rose Campbell; and brother, Fred King. He was survived by his wife of almost 46 years, Anne Hurt King; daughter, Rhonda Casper; son, Rodney (Francisca) King; grandsons, Jordan Tinnel, Jonah Tinnel (Michelle), Tristen King, and Dylan King; great grandchildren, Braxton Morse and Brylee Tinnel; step grandson, Samuel Buttram; stepdaughter, Elizabeth Fournet (Dr. Timothy); step grandchildren, Ammon Hitchcock (Ashton), Phoenix Ray Cantrell (Kyle), William Hitchcock (Katy), John Hitchcock (Summer); step great grandson, Rex Hitchcock; sister, Helen King Cummings; sister-in-law, Lois King; brother-in-law, Dr. John Hurt (Gwen); a host of nieces and nephews; special friend and cousin, Joey King, along with a host of other cousins; and Blue, his devoted dog and companion. Kenneth leaves a giant footprint for our inspiration, respect, and honor. He was born in a humble home without much money or material possessions but great wealth in integrity, honesty, character, helping others, faith in God, and how to “Chin the Wind” (perseverance) through hard times. He was a graduate of Monterey High School class of 1956 which was the first class to graduate from the "New" Monterey High School. His father’s country wisdom advised him to “Just do the best you can” for the standards of excellence which became Kenneth’s trademark as he developed such skills in antique furniture, classic cars, and preservation/restoration of our historical heritage for which he was considered a primitive antiques and log cabin restoration specialist. He loved exploring the Upper Cumberland, the woods, history, but most important knowing the people. He never forgot his humble roots and was always ready with a smile, helping hand, and encouraging words for anyone who needed a friend or was in need. His talents speak for themselves in the beautiful Restoration/preservation of the Old Water Mill and several log houses in the Union Hill Community in Rickman. He preserved all the various forms of log homes as a tribute to the early settlers of the Upper Cumberland. Kenneth was our hero, friend, mentor, and a true Southerner who will be remembered for his gentle smile, gracious ways, and loving-kindness. He was a giant tree in the forest of men. Truly, he represents “It’s a wonderful life” and made the world a better place helping others. His life truly reflects “The American Dream” come true. Visitation with the family was held on Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Goff Funeral Home, 205 East Cleveland Avenue, Monterey, TN 38574. Graveside funeral services and interment were at the Okolona United Methodist Church Cemetery, Rickman, Tennessee, on Friday, March 29, 2024, at 11:00 am with Bro. Tony Phipps officiating. His family requested in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Tennessee Tech University Foundation, The Roy and Pauline King Memorial Scholarship, PO Box 5111, Cookeville, TN 38505. His family expressed their gratitude for the many expressions of kindness, caring, compassion, and helpfulness during Kenneth’s extended illness with special thanks to the Staff of Signature Healthcare of Putnam County, the Staff of DaVita Livingston Dialysis, his excellent team of caregivers at home, and special thanks to his roommate and friend at Signature Healthcare, Duke Henley.

Kenneth King

January 28, 1938 - March 26, 2024