Kenneth Paul Lavelle

Born on July 7, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Kenneth lived a full and faithful life marked by kindness, integrity and quiet strength. He was married to the love of his life, Emily, for 61 years. Their relationship was built on deep respect, unwavering support and enduring love. Kenneth was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son and brother.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Emily H. Lavelle; his parents Warren P. Lavelle & Natalie F. Lavelle and his beloved granddaughter, Rachel Grace Buford.

Kenneth is survived by his three children, Paul K. Lavelle (Jennifer), John C. Lavelle (Patricia) and Aileen E. Lavelle Buford (Marshall) and his brother Michael Warren Lavelle (Betty). He was the proud grandfather to Connor J. Lavelle, Anna Victoria Lavelle, Emily Elizabeth Lavelle (“Ellie”), Thomas A. Buford, Eric W. Buford, Nathan T. Buford.

Kenneth grew up in New Orleans and Lafitte, Louisiana. He graduated from Louisiana State University and went on to earn his graduate degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, LA.

He proudly served in the United States Army as a First Lieutenant for two years, working as a supply officer. During his service, he was stationed at Fort Polk in Louisiana from 1961 until 1963.

Kenneth began his professional career with General Motors, where he laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished path in marketing and communications. He later worked with South Central Bell in New Orleans before continuing his career with AT&T in New Jersey. He eventually settled in Birmingham, Alabama, where he joined BellSouth and continued to build on his reputation as a thoughtful, strategic, and dedicated marketing professional. Over the years, he was known not only for his leadership and creativity but also for his integrity and mentorship. He took great pride in his work and in the relationships, he built along the way.

After retiring from the phone company, he embraced a new and unexpected chapter—working as a bread baker at a local, family-owned bakery in Mountain Brook. It was a role he took on with joy and humility, and one that reflected his lifelong curiosity

and willingness to try something new. Whether in the office or the bakery, he brought the same dedication, warmth, and sense of purpose, crafted to reflect his spirit and the meaningful, joyful life he led.

Kenneth was a tall man with a gentle spirit—fair, generous, and quietly steady as the head of his family. He led not with dominance, but with warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures: baking homemade birthday cakes, crafting heartfelt holiday cards, refurbishing antique furniture, and turning the ordinary into something beautiful. A creative soul, he poured his love into every detail—whether designing Christmas gifts by hand or capturing memories behind the camera lens. He especially cherished family trips, gatherings, and any chance to make his wife and children laugh.

He had a deep affection for the culture and flavor of New Orleans—never passing up a chance for a beignet, a muffuletta from Central Grocery, or the magic of Mardi Gras.

His Catholic faith was the guiding light of his life, providing him with strength, purpose, and direction. A devoted member of his parish community, he served faithfully as both a Eucharistic Minister and a Reader at Mass. He was actively involved in the St. John Vianney Society, the Serra Club, and the Schoenstatt Rosary Group. In 1987, he helped establish a Renew group that continues to this day, and he was a dedicated leader in the Cursillo Movement.

His commitment to spiritual growth extended beyond the parish walls — he regularly organized Seder meals to deepen the community’s understanding of faith traditions and hosted home Bible studies that brought people together in prayer and reflection. His deep, unwavering faith and quiet devotion left a lasting impression on his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His life was a generous blend of creativity, kindness, and quiet joy. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and handmade memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church on Tuesday, October 21st, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., with visitation beginning at 8:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Southern Heritage Cemetery in Pelham, Alabama. All are welcome to join the family for a reception at the funeral home following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, and in accordance with the wishes of Emily and Kenneth Lavelle, donations may be made to Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, in loving memory of Kenneth.