S. T. King

S. T. King, a member of Good Hope Baptist Church nearly all his life, lived a life defined by deep devotion to his country, his community, and his favorite everyday passions, with the United States Marine Corps serving as his lifelong anchor through 23 years of service and three tours in Vietnam. His commitment to his fellow service members remained central to his life as an active member of the American Legion in Bogalusa, Louisiana, the VFW, and the Marine Corps League. Beyond his military pride and community involvement, S. T. found joy in simple and adventurous pleasures: a cold Dr. Pepper paired with a pack of chewing tobacco, traveling alongside his wife, treasure hunting, and trying his luck at bingo—a game he happened to be remarkably good at. Whether he was indulging in crab legs at the casino, heading out often to fish and crab, or marveling at the majestic beauty of the redwoods, he embraced life fully, holding onto one final wish to return to California and see its landscapes one last time. Above all else, he was remembered by everyone who knew him as a genuinely good man, leaving behind a legacy where no one ever had a harsh word to say against him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Martin King and Lucille Alexander King; daughters, Tonya Rivet and Patricia Polk; son, Mark King; brothers, Harvey Luis King, John Martin "Buck" King, and Thomas King; sisters, Macie Temples and Willene Yates.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Katherine King; daughters, Sonya Read (William), Frita Manton, Melissa Polk (Steve); sons, Jai W. Rivet and Lipton Rivet; nineteen grandchildren, thirty-eight great grandchildren; and a number of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation will be held on November 5, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Colonial Funeral Home in Columbia.

The Funeral will take place on November 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at Colonial Funeral Home, followed by a Graveside Service at Goodhope Baptist Church Cemetery in Columbia.