Kenneth William Garth Sr.

Kenneth William Garth Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on August 11, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, to Benjamin Jesse Garth Sr. and Geraldine Hartsfield Garth. Kenneth received his education in Chicago, Illinois and was a graduate of Chicago Vocational High School.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army 19 months from 1967 to 1968 as a Specialist (E-5), where he demonstrated honor, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to service.

Kenneth was united in holy matrimony to Geraldine "Gerry" Gamble Garth, and together they shared 49 years of marriage. From this union, two children were born: Kenneth William Garth Jr. and Kandace Elizabeth Garth. Gerry says he was the best husband, father, and grandfather in the whole wide world.

Kenneth was employed by Eastman Kodak (Danka) for 23 years as a field engineer. During his career, he worked in Indianapolis, Indiana, the Nuclear Power Plant in Bay City and the Houston area for 11 years, and 7 years in San Antonio, Texas. Kenneth retired in Dickinson, Texas, where he remained deeply rooted in his faith, family, and community. He faithfully served as a Chaplain and Vice President of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 685, offering prayer, leadership, and steadfast support to fellow veterans. His servant’s heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith touched countless lives. He continued his lifelong hobby of restoring his 1955 Chevy and drag racing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Jesse Garth Sr. and Geraldine Hartsfield Garth; his son, Kenneth William Garth Jr.; and his brother, Benjamin Duke Garth Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Geraldine Gamble Garth; his daughter, Kandace Elizabeth Garth and husband, Ricardo Daniels; his beloved grandchildren, Jayden Risner and Cierrah Risner; his beloved niece, Chantale Garth-Cooper (Dale); brothers-in-law, Rev. Lionel Gamble (Mildred) and Charles Edward Gamble; cousins, Colonel Thomas Washington (Katyna), Crystal Chinn, Amanda Merrett, and Carolyn Hartsfield; best friend, Jerome Montgomery (Sharon); the entire Bell family; and a host of relatives and friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.

Kenneth lived by his favorite scripture:
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” — Psalm 32:8