Kenneth V. Young

Kenneth Valice Young was born on July 20, 1944, in Dalzell, SC to Doby and Julia Catoe Young. He graduated from Hillcrest High School in Dalzell. During high school Kenneth was a talented athlete, excelling in both football and baseball. His competitive spirit helped him to hit one of the longest home runs in school history.

After graduating high school, Kenneth entered the United States Air Force, where he served in Vietnam as a K-9 handler and a helicopter gunman. During his time in the Air Force Ken earned several commendations and medals for his honorable service and exemplary conduct, including a Ribbon for expert marksmanship (SAEMR). After serving his country, Mr. Young began his career at Dupont, where he worked for over 30 years before retiring in 2001.

Kenneth married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Joyner, on January 16th, 1970. They were happily married for 54 years. Kenneth and Patricia resided in Bethune for 50 years and raised three children. Being with his family brought Kenneth joy beyond words, and his contagious smile and laughter will be missed by each one of them.

Throughout his life, Kenneth was an avid Gamecock fan and enjoyed all types of competitive sports, especially golf and video games. He was actively involved in his community, coaching both little league football and baseball. He also taught Sunday School at Timrod Baptist Church for many years. Kenneth was a gifted speaker as well. He easily captivated his audience and left everyone wanting to hear more. This ability left a lasting impression on all his children and grandchildren.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents, Doby and Julia Young, and siblings Barbara Pottiger of Camden, and Donald Young of Sumter. He is survived by his siblings Richard Young of Florence and Joann Vincent of Camden. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Patricia Young and their three children: Kenneth Kevin Young (Jessica) of Bethune, Brian Keith Young (Amy) of Kershaw, and Sheila Young Tomlin (Gary) of Myrtle Beach. Kenneth has ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Kenneth cast a wide net of love and devotion that will remain in the hearts of the many lives he touched.

The family will receive friends at Baker Conference Center, 105 North Minor Street, Kershaw, SC on Sunday, October 13, 2024, beginning at 1:30 P.M. to 3:00 P.M

The Celebration of life service will be held at Baker Conference Center at 3:00 P.M. immediately following the visitation. Rev. Mike Vincent will officiate the service.

Burial will follow the service in the Timrod Baptist Church Cemetery in Bethune, SC with military honors.

Memorial remembrances may be made to Shamrock Baptist Church, 3573 Porter Road, Bethune, S.C. 29009 or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Arrangements are under the care of Baker Funeral Home, Kershaw, S.C.