Ray Kenneth Rector

Ray Kenneth Rector passed away peacefully at his Waynesville, NC home on January 27, 2025. Jesus chose to bring Kenneth home on his 83rd birthday. He celebrated in the arms of Jesus and loved ones who preceded.

Ken Rector was born January 27, 1942, in McDowell County, NC to his parents, Andrew Woodrow Rector and Eva Arrington. He spent his childhood growing up in the Panther Creek Community of Haywood County. He attended school at the Old Fines Creek School House in Fines Creek, NC. He spent much of his childhood at the home of his paternal grandparents, Hayden and Bobby Rector on Riverside Drive.

Kenneth left Western North Carolina at the age of 16 to work in the Shipyard in Newport News, Virgina. When he turned 18, he joined the United States Army Armed Forces. He earned his place in the 101st Airborne Division. During his four years of service, he was deployed to The Bay of Pigs on the foreign soil of Cuba and the Martin Luthar King riots in Memphis TN. After returning from armed forces, Ken went on to become an expert nuclear welder. He worked with the United Association for over 30 years.

In retirement, Ken voluntarily served as the Commander of The American Legion Posts #47 of Waynesville, NC for multiple years.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents; Andrew Rector and Eva Arrington, a sister, Hilda Wilde (Archie) and a brother, Bobby Rector. He is survived by brothers, Jerry Rector, Brian Rector (Juanita), sister Freida Sellards (Abe). His children; Dawn Scott (Jimmy), Charles Rector (Wendy), Vanessa Seay, and Deborah Myklebost. He leaves behind 10 beloved grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Kenneth was a beloved Uncle to numerous nieces and nephews, including great nieces and nephews, who will miss and fondly remember their Uncle Kenneth.

Family and friends remember many hours of talented guitar playing and singing by Ken. He is also remembered for his kind and generous character and was known as someone who you could “call on.” He always had a humble smile and a kind word for everyone he met. Ken is leaving behind a countless number of friends and will be greatly missed by all.

Ken; a Son, a Brother, a Veteran, a Daddy, a Papa, an Uncle, a Friend, a Buddy, a Comrade. We will miss you fiercely until we meet again.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 8, 2025, at 10AM at the Waynesville Armory 44 Boundary Street, Waynesville, NC – with Honor Guard Presentation to follow at the American Legion Post #47, 171 Legion Drive, Waynesville, NC.