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(From Ozark Funeral Home)Kenneth Dwayne Cokely, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Wellsville Manor in Wellsville, Kansas, after months of failing health.
Born on August 23, 1933, in Watonga, Oklahoma, Kenneth's life was a testament to the values of love, kindness, and a remarkable ability to fix and create, which he carried with him throughout his 90 years.
Kenneth grew up in the close-knit community of Watonga, where he graduated from Watonga High School in 1951. His early years in Oklahoma laid a strong foundation for the man he would become, characterized by a strong work ethic and a commitment to his family and friends. After high school, Kenneth embarked on a lifelong journey with his beloved wife, Shirley Hines, whom he married on December 17, 1955. Together, they built a life filled with love and mutual respect, a bond that remained unbroken until his final days.
Kenneth's professional life was marked by dedication and loyalty, as evidenced by his over 40 years of employment with Owens Corning, from which he retired in 1988. Kenneth and Shirley settled in Linwood, Kansas, where they raised their family and became integral members of the community.
A man of faith, Kenneth attended both Pineville and Neosho Christian Churches, where he found spiritual fulfillment and a sense of belonging. His interests were as varied as they were passionate. Kenneth found joy in traveling, exploring new places, and creating memories with his family. He was an enthusiastic coach for his children's sports teams, imparting not just the skills of the game but also the values of teamwork and perseverance.
Kenneth's love for the outdoors was evident in his hobbies, which included gardening, fishing, and hunting. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering, fixing, or building something.
Kenneth's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Shirley Cokely, who survives of the home. He is also lovingly remembered by his children, Cheryl Boyer and her husband, Ed, of Baldwin City, Kansas, and Keith Cokely and his wife, Hiede, of Tonganoxie, Kansas. His nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren will miss their grandfather's gentle presence and the wisdom he shared. Kenneth's sister, Barbara McGregor, and her husband, Kermit, of Derby, Kansas, along with a host of other family and friends, will cherish the memories of the times they spent with him.
Kenneth's professional life was marked by dedication and loyalty, as evidenced by his over 40 years of employment with Owens Corning, from which he retired in 1988. Kenneth and Shirley settled in Linwood, Kansas, where they raised their family and became integral members of the community.
A man of faith, Kenneth attended both Pineville and Neosho Christian Churches, where he found spiritual fulfillment and a sense of belonging. His interests were as varied as they were passionate. Kenneth found joy in traveling, exploring new places, and creating memories with his family. He was an enthusiastic coach for his children's sports teams, imparting not just the skills of the game but also the values of teamwork and perseverance.
Kenneth's love for the outdoors was evident in his hobbies, which included gardening, fishing, and hunting. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering, fixing, or building something.
Kenneth's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Shirley Cokely, who survives of the home. He is also lovingly remembered by his children, Cheryl Boyer and her husband, Ed, of Baldwin City, Kansas, and Keith Cokely and his wife, Hiede, of Tonganoxie, Kansas. His nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren will miss their grandfather's gentle presence and the wisdom he shared. Kenneth's sister, Barbara McGregor, and her husband, Kermit, of Derby, Kansas, along with a host of other family and friends, will cherish the memories of the times they spent with him.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lucille (Bliss) Cokely, his son Jeff Cokely, and his brother, Charles Cokely. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his spirit lives on in the love he gave and the lives he touched.
Graveside services are 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 12, 2024 at Macedonia Cemetery near Stella, Missouri with Pastor Dustin Morris officiating. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Keith Cokely, Ed Boyer, Scott Wilhite and Dustin Morris. The family will receive friends on Monday morning from 10-10:30 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Memorials are being directed to either the Alzheimer’s Association or House of Prayer c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.
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