Kenneth Baugh Jarvis

Born on November 21, 1934, to Evelyn L. and William Kenneth Jarvis in San Francisco, California, Kenneth Baugh Jarvis, affectionately known as Ken, was raised in a vibrant and diverse community. From his family, he imbibed timeless values: treating others with respect, completing tasks with dedication, and being a beacon of kindness to all.

Ken attended Polytechnic High School, where fate introduced him to Kay Washington, his beloved partner in life. Amidst the backdrop of the Korean War, Ken enlisted in the United States Air Force while actively participating in the Civil Air Patrol. During Christmas week of 1953, amidst joyous celebrations, he proposed to Kay, marking the beginning of their enduring love story. However, their happiness was tinged with sorrow following the unexpected loss of Ken's mother.

On July 3, 1954, Ken and Kay exchanged vows, embarking on a journey together that would take them across continents and through decades of shared experiences. Stationed in Paris shortly after their marriage, Ken's service with the Air Police and later at the US Embassy in Paris underscored his commitment to duty and country.

Upon their return to San Francisco in 1957, Ken joined United Parcel Service, where he made history as the company's first African American delivery car driver. His ascent to his role as personnel manager reflected his dedication and professionalism. Ken's professional pursuits eventually led him to Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where they immersed themselves in community service and forged enduring relationships.

In 1976, Ken and Kay made a pivotal decision to relocate to Plano, Texas, where Ken was tasked with establishing the Southwest region of UPS. This move not only marked a new chapter in their lives but also presented an opportunity to further their commitment to community service. Throughout his 37-year tenure, as Vice President of Human Resources, Ken played a pivotal role in shaping diversity and inclusion policies within the company.

In Plano, Ken quickly immersed himself in the vibrant and dynamic community, where he met other like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact. Together, they worked tirelessly to strengthen the fabric of the Plano community, initiating programs and projects aimed at fostering unity, inclusivity, and prosperity for all residents. Hamilton Park United Methodist Church was their church home. While there Kenneth and Kay established the food pantry and participated in various other ministries.

Driven by a shared passion for exploration, Ken and Kay traversed the globe, relishing adventures on six continents. Yet, amidst their worldly travels, family remained paramount. Ken's love for people, his culinary prowess, and his affinity for golf fostered lifelong friendships and joyful gatherings.

In retirement, Ken & Kay re-settled in Plano, Texas, where Ken remained deeply engaged in community affairs, serving on various boards and committees, including Texas Health Resources, the Plano Symphony and the Plano Police Civilian Review Board. One of his most proud accomplishments was The Mutual Alliance Restoring Community Hope known as The March Foundation which he co-founded with his friend James Pierce to provide grants and scholarships for young college bound African Americans entering Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The March Foundation coming upon it's 26th anniversary has provided over 2000 grants and scholarships during its existence.

Kenneth and Kay's legacy of philanthropy and community service was further honored with the African American Heritage Award, bestowed upon him for his exceptional contributions to the African American Museum of Dallas. This recognition underscores his profound impact and dedication to uplifting and empowering his community.

Alongside his beloved Kay, he established the H. Kay Jarvis and Kenneth B. Jarvis Foundation, extending their generosity to institutions like throughout the community. After Kay was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Ken began an endowment, known as the H. Kay Jarvis Alzheimer’s Research Endowment, to help understand the devasting disease.

Ken's unwavering devotion to his wife during her battle with Alzheimer's, until her passing on April 14, 2023, epitomized his profound commitment to family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and resilience, survived by his son, Kenneth B. Jarvis II, daughter Michele Jarvis Kindred, granddaughter Krystal N. Jarvis, grandson Kenneth B. Jarvis III, and great-granddaughter Ariela Giles.

In celebrating Ken's life, let us cherish his indomitable spirit, his unwavering kindness, and his enduring legacy of service and love.

A funeral service for Ken will be held on Monday June 17, 2024 at Hamilton Park United Methodist Church at 10:30AM. The family will hold a brief repast following the service, before Ken will be laid to rest at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.