Ken H. Youngblood Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth Haven Youngblood Jr. who left us peacefully on January 3, 2025. Born on September 25, 1946, Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Haven Youngblood Sr. and Viola Youngblood, his beloved daughter Tracy Marie Coppock, and his sister Genneth Lee James.

Ken is survived by his devoted wife of 49 years, Kathleen Youngblood who often joked that it was the best $7.10 he ever paid (the cost of a marriage license in Memphis, Tennessee). He leaves behind two loving daughters, Terri (Mike) Lydon and Kristy (Jimmy) Garrett; his niece Karyn (Eli) Beard; and his cherished grandchildren Kaley Coppock Paige (Evan) Hurst, Jacob Coppock, Madison (Ethan) Mann, Aidan Garrett, Kenzie Garrett, Tyler Johnson. and Chloe Johnson. He also adored his five great-grandchildren: Eli, Asher, and Olivia Hurst, and Cambree and Saylor Mann. Ken’s family was the center of his world, and he loved them fiercely.

Ken dedicated his life to service, retiring after 29 years from the Little Rock Fire Department, where he rose to the rank of District Chief. He continued to serve as the Fire Department Chief in Benton for three more years. His work in the fire service was not just a career but a calling, and through his service, he formed lifelong friendships with colleagues and fellow firefighters.

A passionate fan of baseball and football, Ken made countless lasting friends through his love of the game. Above all he was a man who valued family. His pride and joy were his loved ones, and his legacy of strength, love, and dedication will live on in them.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Tuesday January 7, 2025, at Pinecrest Funeral Home, where friends and family are invited to gather and share in the memories of a man who made the world a better place.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace, Ken and thank you for everything.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Arkansas Children's Hospital burn unit in honor of Ken’s service as a firefighter.