Kenneth R. Smith

June 13, 1930 – June 27, 2016

Kenneth R. Smith, formerly of Sequim, passed away on June 27, 2016. His death was the result of a fall.

Ken was born to Roy C. and Lela Nix Smith, originally from Carbon Hill, Alabama, on June 13, 1930. He was the last of 5 children.

The Smith family moved from Carbon Hill, to Sequim when Ken was nine. Ken thrived in Sequim and was a talented athlete in football, baseball and all state in high school basketball.

He was signed to a professional baseball contract with the St. Louis Browns in the early 1950s. He had a perfect winning record as a pitcher in the pros before being drafted and serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Later in life, he played on the “Town Team” baseball

team, in the pick-up basketball games one night a week at the Sequim High School gym and golfed every chance he got.

Ken married Ruth Moe and adopted her two sons, Bob and Steve, who soon became a focus and joy of his life. His marriage to Ruth ended, but his love and dedication to his two sons continued until the end.

He met and married Willie Mae McGough from Jasper, Alabama, and they moved back to Jasper after he retired from his career at Ken’s Barber Shop in Sequim. Ken and Willie Mae were happily married for over 39 years.

His interests included playing golf, catch, ping pong, “horse”, pool, and crabbing; but singing and playing his guitar to country and gospel music were his favorites to the day he passed.

He was a member of the Sequim Assembly of God church where he sang in a men’s quartet and played his guitar.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Willie Mae; sons Bob (Adele) and Steve (Shelly); 6 grandchildren, Kevin, Korey (Mikie), Sarah (Derek) Huntington, Matthew, Kim (Godwin) Selembo and Lindsey (Chris) Lautsbaugh; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was also blessed with a multitude of nephews, nieces, cousins and dear friends.

Ken’s parents, 2 brothers Alvin and John, and 2 sisters, Vivian Bell and Hazel Tague preceded him in death.

Funeral services were held in Jasper, Alabama, on Sunday, July 3, 2016. Willie Mae, Bob, Steve and many friends and relatives attended the beautiful service.

The family wants to thank all those that have expressed their love and condolences during this difficult time.