Kenny was very active in sports while attending Bentonville Public Schools: He played Minor League, Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball. He was known as one of the best first basemen that ever played baseball for Bentonville. He also played basketball and football in his junior and senior years of high school.
He really found his passion in track and field as a high jumper. He was the original to use Fosbury flop and set the school record while doing so. He was a member of the “B” Club or Letterman’s Club. Sports were always present in his life. He often referred to his early baseball and track memories as some of his best times of his life. He graduated from Bentonville High School in 1977.
Even as an adult, Kenny played in coed softball leagues as often as he could and cheered on our beloved Bentonville Tigers every Friday night.
In his youth, he worked various farming jobs; hauling hay and picking peaches for local farmers. After graduation he worked for Excell-Lindy. Then he began his management career with Harps Food Stores as a Warehouse Manager, serving 10 years before joining the Wal-Mart Team. This Included working at the Returns Center, then at the Center Point Building for a number of years before they became part of the Warehouse 8 Team.
Kenny was described as a wonderful servant leader, earning the respect of those under him. He was dedicated to his work and such a great team player, one of the best managers we had for sure, says Wes Waddell (Warehouse 8 General Manager).
He retired from Wal-Mart in 2015.
Kenny loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman. He spent his retirement years crafting his art of woodworking, chainsaw carving, drawing and painting. Kenny went through the process of being approved to make licensed Razorback art by the University of Arkansas. When he wasn’t working on his art, he was fishing, playing with his puppies and gardening with his family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; James and Lometa Sandlin.
He is survived by his brother, James (Mike) and wife Wanda Sandlin; daughter, Kimberly and husband Monte Wilson; grandchildren, Colby and Taylor Wilson, along with many other relatives and friends.
Kenny went to be with our Lord and Savior on August 14, 2026, while being surrounded by many friends and family members.
He will be remembered for his kindness and love for anyone that crossed his path.
