Kenneth "KD" Demetrius Hairston

Born in Jenkins Jones, West Virginia, Kenny carried the values of hard work, humility, and loyalty throughout his life. He proudly served with the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Department for 30 years, where he was known for his dependability, professionalism, and unwavering work ethic.

He took great pride in serving his community and providing for those he loved. Outside of work, Kenny found his greatest joy in the simple things. He loved being out in the country, riding ATVs with his best friends Raymond and Raynard. He was a lover of Chinese food and spending quality time with his family. He also had a special place in his heart for animals and was known for rescuing those in need.

Kenny was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He was gentle, patient, and kind. His calm presence brought comfort to those around him, and when he laughed, everyone knew it was a good joke.

When Kenny became ill, he fought with incredible resilience. Time and again, he proved stronger than anyone expected, giving his family precious time they will forever cherish.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn. Their journey together saw many seasons, but one thing never changed, his love for her. Just days before his passing, Kenny made it known that he loved Dawn with his whole heart.

Kenny was a devoted father to AJ (Heather) Shakira, Erica, Saquoia, and Quyn. He never saw them as anything other than his own, and they never saw him as anything other than Dad.

He shared an especially close bond with Erica and Saquoia, who spent countless hours by his side, especially during the last six months of his life. Even after Erica moved out of state, she returned home often to be with him. Together, they filled his days with love, laughter, and family. Around his daughters, he could let his guard down and become a kid again. Whether they were sharing meals, taking drives, running errands, or playfully bickering over how many Starbursts he was eating, they found joy in life's simplest moments. Those memories will be treasured forever.

He also leaves behind his beloved brother, Corey, with whom he shared a lifelong bond rooted in love, loyalty, and family. Through every season of life, they remained connected by the kind of relationship only brothers can understand. Whether sharing memories, laughter, or simply knowing they could count on one another, Corey was an important part of Kenny's life. His nieces, Shantel and Courtney, were a tremendous source of pride and joy. Kenny loved them dearly and treasured the time they spent together. Shantel shared an especially close relationship with her Uncle Kenny and was a constant source of love and support during his illness. The love they shared was evident to everyone who knew them.

Kenneth is also survived by his grandchildren, great-nieces and great-nephews, his dear Aunt Emma, many cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Townsel; his father, Charles Hairston, who gave his life while serving in the Vietnam War; and his beloved stepfather, Tony.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dawn, Danine, Skip, Tonya, Paul, Shantel, Courtney, Erica, and Saquoia for surrounding Kenny with unwavering love and support throughout his final six months. Their presence brought him comfort and reminded him every day how deeply he was loved.

A special thank you to Josh Camacho, Kenny's physical therapist, whose compassion, encouragement, and dedication helped him regain strength and continue fighting. Kenny truly valued their time together, and his family will always be grateful for the care he provided.

Kenny will be remembered for his quiet strength, gentle heart, unwavering work ethic, and the love he showed through his actions. He didn't need many words to make a lasting impact. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, and the countless lives he touched.

Well done, Kenny. You fought with everything you had. Your love will live on in all of us.

Visitation will be held at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home, 14768 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, on July 16, 2026, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.