Kenneth Judd

Kenneth Judd, 73, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on March 8, 2026. Born August 24, 1952, Kenneth was brave, devoted, and beloved—one of those larger-than-life men whose presence could fill a room, and whose humor could rescue a hard day in a single sentence. From the start, he lived with a steady sense of purpose, and just enough mischief to keep everyone on their toes. After this introduction, “Kenneth” will be lovingly remembered as Ken.

Ken was born and raised in Glendale, Arizona. He attended Dysart High School, Class of 1970. He was born to William and Olive Judd. After leaving the Marine Corps, he earned his Associate’s Degree from Glendale Community College—proof that even after doing the hard things, he still believed in doing the next right thing.

Ken served in the Marine Corps and fought in Vietnam as an Aircraft Safety Equipment Mechanic and MP. He discharged as a Sargent. After leaving the Marine’s, he began working for the United States Government and worked many jobs within the Department of Defense. He retired in 2017—though anyone who knew him might say he never truly “retired” from keeping an eye out, speaking up, and standing tall for what mattered.

Ken met his wife when they were both just kids. They grew up together and eventually fell in love. They married in 1971, and their marriage resulted in their three loving children Tammy, Anna, and Jonathan. Ken was a prankster with his kids, always finding a way to get a rise out of them, and a big jokester with a wisecrack ready to go—often delivered with the kind of timing that made it impossible not to laugh, even when you tried. Beneath the jokes, though, he was deeply loving and protective, and to his children, he was their hero.

Ken loved his grandkids more than anyone. He loved to spoil them and was always looking out for them. They lovingly called him Papa—and if Papa was teasing you, you were probably one of the lucky ones.

A true patriot, Ken dedicated his life to serving his country both as a Marine and a civilian. He had a deep love for the Blue Jays (Flight Demonstration Squadron for the Navy/Marines). He was also a proud member of the Marine Corp League, serving as Commandant for the Ira Hayes Detachment—always ready to show up, step forward, and represent something bigger than himself.

Ken is survived by Jonathan Judd (Sally Judd), Anna Lopez, and Tammy Judd. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.