Kenneth Reed Henderson

With heavy hearts and immense love, we announce the passing of Kenneth Reed Henderson—known to many simply as Kenny. A devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, great-grandpa, and friend, Kenny departed this life gently, surrounded by family, on November 22, 2025.

Kenny was born on July 25, 1954, in Preston, Idaho, the much-anticipated younger brother of Pat, arriving six years later and quickly becoming “daddy’s little boy.” As a baby, Kenny was easygoing and content—so much so that during fishing trips with Grandpa Rice, he happily played in his playpen, earning a reputation for being mellow and easy to please.

At four years old, Kenny contracted polio. Thanks to the polio vaccine, his case was less severe than his Uncle Harvey’s, but it still left lasting challenges. He learned to walk with a brace, often holding onto drawer handles as he made his way down the hallway. His mother, Jadine, was relentless in her care—performing physical therapy at home with hot towels and stretching exercises, even when it brought Kenny to tears. Her dedication gave him strength, resilience, and the ability to walk.

As a teenager, Kenny developed a reputation for being a bit of a hellion. He received his first car, a 1957 Chevy, from Grandpa Lester Henderson. At sixteen, Kenny once tried to outrun the police, only to have his mom retrieve him and deliver him to the station herself. Spending a night in jail was a sobering experience—one he never repeated.

During his high school years, Kenny met Joyce Williams, who would later become his beloved companion. They spent time together as friends, creating memories and a bond that would reconnect them many years later.

Kenny graduated from Preston High School in 1972. After graduation, he moved to Vernal, Utah, where he met Melanie Kempton and had two daughters, Ami and Tina. Later, he married Diane Belew and was blessed to raise four more children: Kerry, Terry, Robin, and Greg. In 2011, Kenny reconnected with Joyce Williams (“Lou”) on Facebook. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Kenny worked for many years in the oil fields, as an over-the-road truck driver, at Icon, and finally at NAPA Auto Parts, retiring at age 59 due to disability. He moved to Mesquite, Nevada, with Lou, where they enjoyed their golden years.

Kenny’s passions were many: hunting, fishing, deep-fried turkeys at Thanksgiving, cooking big breakfasts, golfing, football, NASCAR, and most of all, spending time with family and friends. He loved giving nicknames to his daughters and granddaughters—Mushy, Boo, Goose, Herm, Dolly, Lester, Stretch, Tuffy, and Mutt—and called his grandson Bug. Kenny was known for his quick wit, inventing words and stories that would leave everyone laughing.

Kenny was also a dedicated, long-time member of the Elks Organization. Over the years, he held many positions and served on various committees. He took special pride in organizing and delivering baskets to those in need, coordinating golf tournaments, and actively supporting the Elks’ mission. His commitment to the organization reflected his generous spirit and his desire to make a difference in his community.

He enjoyed traveling with Lou—exploring Alaska, attending the NFR in Las Vegas, and taking road trips to the Grand Canyon and other places that piqued his curiosity. Kenny’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and generosity. He was always ready with a great meal, a good story, and a helping hand. He made friends wherever he went and maintained a positive outlook, even during illness.

In the last few years, Kenny’s health took a significant toll on his body, but his determination and fighting spirit never wavered. Despite the challenges and setbacks he faced, Kenny met each day with courage and resilience. He was a true fighter, always pushing forward and inspiring those around him with his strength and optimism.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Reed Henderson and Jadine Rice, and Allyson Jenson, Joyce’s daughter. He is survived by his sweetheart, Joyce Williams (“Lou”); daughters Ami (Lonny), Tina (Dustin), Robin (Todd); sons Brian, Matthew, Kerry (Sherry), Terry, and Greg (Brenda); sister Pat (Sid); 38 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Mesquite Hospice, the imaging department at St. George Regional Hospital—especially Adam, who was truly his guy—the dedicated nursing staff at the hospital, and Dr. Meyers and Rico at the Foot Institute. Your compassion and care made a meaningful difference in Kenny’s final days.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Webb Funeral Home, 1005 S. 800 E., Preston, Idaho. A viewing will be on Friday, December 5, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., and on Saturday from 9:30–10:30 a.m., before the service. Interment will be at Swan Lake Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared at webbmortuary.com.

Kenny’s life was defined by resilience, humor, and a boundless love for family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.