Kenneth Wayne King

Kenneth Wayne King peacefully passed away at home on June 13, 2026, surrounded by family. While his departure leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, his family finds comfort knowing he has finally gone home to be with the Lord he faithfully served throughout his life.

Kenneth was born on June 16, 1940, at home in North Carolina to Gardner and Violet King. Raised with strong Christian values, a tireless work ethic, and an unwavering sense of integrity, Kenneth carried those lessons with him throughout his life and shared them with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A proud farm boy at heart, Kenneth understood the value of hard work, shaped by countless hours and responsibilities on the family farm from an early age. Despite the economic challenges of his childhood, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University and later a master’s degree in education from the University of Virginia. He devoted more than forty years to shaping minds—first as a high school teacher and later as a science professor and department chair at Seminole State College. His impact extended far beyond the classroom, leaving a legacy of knowledge, mentorship, and encouragement for the many students and colleagues he encountered throughout his career.

Kenneth’s commitment to serving others extended beyond education. From the mid to late 80s, he served as a Lake Mary City Commissioner during a pivotal period in the city’s early growth and development. He was a strong advocate for thoughtful planning, preserving the natural beauty of the community while encouraging responsible progress. Many of the spacious setbacks and green spaces that define Lake Mary today reflect the vision he championed. Kenneth believed a city should grow in harmony with its environment, and he took great pride in helping shape a community future generations could enjoy.

Kenneth is survived by his devoted wife, Christy King; his children, David King, Craig King, and Sarah Nassoiy; their spouses, Chloe King, Rachel King, and Philip Nassoiy; and his beloved grandchildren, in order of birth: Journee King, Isabelle King, Caden King, Cooper Nassoiy, Alana King, Ava Nassoiy, and Noelle King. He is also survived by his sister, Pearl LeVar, and his brother, Donald King.

Faith was the foundation upon which Kenneth built his life. He spoke quietly to God and prayed faithfully. He often said that every good Christian wants to go home to their King, and his family finds peace knowing he has reached his destination. As a wise man once said, “It is not goodbye, but instead, I will see you later.”

Outside of work, Kenneth enjoyed the simple pleasures that made him feel rich. He loved golfing with his buddies, baseball—both watching and coaching—eating out, spending time with and spoiling friends and family, doing laundry, and fiddling in the yard.

Few things brought him more satisfaction than climbing onto his beloved John Deere tractor to conquer the yard. When other family members tried to mow, they often found Kenneth keeping a watchful eye—sometimes even hopping onto the back of the mower to ride along and offer additional guidance. Every plant and flower bed was inspected and cared for with meticulous attention. His yard was not merely maintained—it was supervised.

His grandchildren brought him endless joy. Whether it was a ride on the tractor, an approved (or unapproved) fast-food run, a go-kart adventure, or simply time spent together, Kenneth delighted in creating memories and making his grandchildren smile and giggle.

Kenneth was also the family’s unofficial laundry “King.” While his dedication to clean, folded clothes was admirable and adored, several family members may argue that Heaven may now end up with a few shriveled silk shirts.

Generosity defined Kenneth’s character. He always put others first, ensuring everyone around him was cared for before himself. Even with his own birthday desserts, he would never take the first bite—he always offered it to others first. He cared deeply for people and shared his good fortune through donations to various organizations.

Known to family and friends as “Old Red” and “Red Man,” and to his golfing buddies as “Kenny Ray,” Kenneth never met a stranger. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and special. His gentle demeanor, kindness, and humor quickly turned those around him into friends.

One of Kenneth’s favorite life lessons was that life is like a three-legged stool: one leg represents family, another faith, and the third marriage. All three must be cared for equally to keep the stool steady and balanced—and he lived by this philosophy.

True to his nature, Kenneth did not want his passing to be marked by sorrow. Instead, he asked that family and friends celebrate a life well lived by sharing stories filled with laughter and good memories. He wanted his passing to be a celebration. In the words of Jimmy Buffett, one of his favorite artists, “Bubbles Up.”

A Celebration of Life for Kenneth Wayne King will be held at his home, 347 Rockwell Circle, Lake Mary, Florida 32746, on Sunday, June 28, at 3:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather for food, drinks, laughter, and the sharing of stories about “Old Red,” “Red Man,” and “Kenny Ray.”

Come hungry, leave full, and bring a story to tell.

In lieu of flowers, Kenneth requests that donations be made to Boston Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Boston Children’s Hospital https://bostonchildrens.org/giveinmemory or mail checks to: Boston Children’s Hospital Trust - 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215-05301

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?&sc_dcm=169218625179&sc_cid=kwp&sc_cat=b&&&&&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21824713177&gbraid=0AAAAADuyZN7ehrMRdSfYG3_E9CrLacm6E&gclid=Cj0KCQjwornRBhCrARIsAON5exEibd6rcoff47JFLG0fPnR7DhQxJmn5

The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the love, friendship, support, and countless memories shared throughout Kenneth’s life. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the family he cherished, the students he inspired, and the lives he touched.