Kenneth Charles Fernandez del Villar

April 2, 1953 - October 30, 2026

On October 30, 2026, Kenneth Charles Fernandez del Villar's faith became sight when he breathed his last, surrounded by his wife, his daughters, and his son (and his wife), with many of his grandchildren nearby in his home in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. While the loss to his family is heavy, Ken dearly loved the Lord and is rejoicing to be with Him now. He lived with his eye on the gospel, seeking the Spirit's power to draw others to Jesus.

Ken was born in Bronx, NY, on April 2, 1953, to Joseph Louis Fernandez del Villar and Mary Singer del Villar. He was the middle child with an older sister and younger brother. Ken graduated from Watchung Hills Regional High School in Warren, NJ, class of 1971. Earning a varsity letter in soccer, he continued playing soccer in his first year at Upsala College in East Orange, NJ. He then studied briefly at Lynchburg College, but ultimately earned his Associate's Degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Washington Bible College. He was commissioned and ordained to the gospel ministry.

Ken married Deborah Ritchey on June 15, 1974. Following their marriage and some time in Virginia, the family settled in Maryland, where they raised their three children - Laura, Beth, and Kenny. Together, Ken and Deb enjoyed camping, traveling, motorcycling, sports, and family life. Committed to serving the Lord through ministry, they were faithful co-laborers for the gospel. 2 Timothy 2:2 was his ministry verse: and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also. Over the years, Ken served with Awana Clubs International, Greenhouse Ministries, and The Legacy Coalition, along with the local churches Ken and Deb joined, loved, and assisted.

In his later years, Ken worked at West Harpeth Hills and Harpeth Hills Funeral Home as well as several funeral homes in the Manchester and Tullahoma area where he valued serving families. Additionally, he pursued a new hobby of woodworking where he thoroughly enjoyed making pens to give as gifts.

Ken is survived by his wife, Deborah del Villar, and his children, Laura (JJ) Gillette, Beth (Dave) Watson, and Kenny (Jennifer) del Villar, fourteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren, as well as his brother Joseph del Villar. Ken was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary del Villar, and sister Judy Washbourne.

With all the roles Ken filled, husband, dad, and grandad were his favorite. A celebration of his life will be held at OneChurch Barfield on Saturday, November, 21, 2026 at 12:00 pm with a visitation starting at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Greenhouse Ministries Donate – Greenhouse Min.org\donate\ or Roots Classical Tutorial - https://www.rootsclassicaltutorial.org/donate .