Kenny Bateman

Kenneth Dale Bateman 68, of Fort Smith, AR, passed away peacefully in hospice care on Nov 7, 2023. He was born to Bill & Evelyn Bateman on April 8, 1955, in Fort Smith; AR. Kenny was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church.

Kenny started a career in the Oil & Gas Industry by being the first manager for Quick Lay Pipe Co. in 1979. He worked there until 2006 when he left to Co-found Action Pipe & Supply. Later, he became the GM of Quick Transports until his retirement in April of 2020.

Kenny was heavily involved in sports throughout his life. He loved playing football in his childhood where he made many lifelong friendships. Later in life he found his love for coaching, he coached both Kyle and Kristin in baseball, basketball, and of course soccer which became a passion of his. He was a diving force in building girls’ classic soccer in the area, which helped propel numerous young women into successful college players. Even after his children had left the house, he continued coaching, he led a girls club basketball team to an undefeated season ending in a championship. After Kenny’s retirement he was able to return to his love of collecting baseball cards. He enjoyed building his impressive card collection and putting his best picks on display at home.

Throughout Kenny’s life he showed a passion for landscaping and working on his never-ending backyard upgrades. He was the type of man that had great pride in everything he did. Kenny had a great affection for animals, so much that he never crossed a pet he didn’t befriend. His love for all the family pets was unmeasurable, Tom-Tom his cat was an unexpected friendship he talked so fondly about and Lexie his dog that was always by his side.

He is preceded in death by his parents Bill & Evelyn Bateman; in-laws Bill Sr. & Ann England; Brother in-law Bill England Jr. and nephew TJ Cunningham. Survived by his wife of 43 years Jo Ann “Jodie”, son Kyle and his girlfriend Amanda, daughter Dr. Kristin, son in-law Silas Keig, and step granddaughter Preslie. He is also survived by his brothers and sister. Bill & Judy Bateman, Tommy & Sondra Bateman, and Carolyn & Jerry Turley; In-laws Mike & Kathy O’Kelley and Laura England. Also survived by lifelong friends and many nieces & nephews. Kenny was loved by many.

Memorial services will be held at 2pm Thursday Nov. 9th, 2023, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church and Boys & Girls Club Inc. Fort Smith, AR.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com