Kenneth James Ardillo

Kenneth “Kenny” Ardillo, lovingly known as Kenny, passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2026. He was born on July 29, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Mildred Lightell and was lovingly raised by his stepfather, Walter Lightell.

The greatest love of Kenny’s life was his wife, Dedra Ann Ardillo. After eloping to Nahunta, Georgia, they began a beautiful journey together that lasted 65 years. Anyone who knew Kenny knew that he adored Dedra. The way he looked at her spoke volumes—she was the love of his life, his best friend, and his greatest blessing.

Kenny proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 25 years. While continuing his service in the Naval Reserve, he began his career at Walt Disney World in 1971 as part of the opening-day team. Starting as a monorail mechanic, he went on to retire from Engineering Management after 38 years of dedicated service. Throughout both his military and civilian careers, Kenny was known for his integrity, loyalty, and exceptional work ethic.

Above all else, Kenny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was the kind of man who would help anyone in need without expecting anything in return. His neighbors loved him because he was always willing to lend a hand, offer a smile, or simply be there when someone needed him. To those who knew him best, Kenny was simply the most amazing man—a man whose kindness, humility, and love left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Funeral Service will be held at Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL 34734, US, on June 29, 2026, at 1PM. A time of fellowship to follow from 2-4 pm in the funeral home