HENDERSON – Kenneth Aulanda Everette, age 85, of Henderson, NC, peacefully went home to live with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on April 12, 2025, at Mariah Parham Hospital in Henderson, surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his beloved bride of 66 years, Audrey Faye Strickland Everette; his children, Lori Baker (Alan Baker), Cheryl Everette, Kenneth B. Everette, Sharon Esposito, and Karen Glass; his grandchildren Danielle (Baker) Miller (Jordan Miller), Jason Baker (Jenna Baker), Christopher Everette, John Everette, Brian Everette, Kenneth C. Everette, and Nicholas Glass; his greatgrandchildren Kenneth D. Everette, Ashlynn Miller, Rylan Byrd, and Roman Byrd, and his sisters, Janice Brake (Robert Brake) and Kaye Stocks (James Stocks).
Ken was born in Arapahoe, NC to Russell and Marguerite Everette. He attended West Edgecomb High School and was elected Student Council President. He honorably served in the US Air Force with tours in South Korea and Air Bases in San Angelo and San Antonio, Texas. Following his military service, Ken was employed by International Business Machines (IBM) as a software engineer/programmer for over 25 years. His many contributions were acknowledged with an award ceremony and a Letter of Appreciation from US Senator Jesse Helms. During his retirement, Ken wanted to be of service to his community and worked in Security at Mariah Parham Hospital for many years.
His leisure interests included golfing on prominent courses and fishing. An avid reader throughout his life, he collected a library of over 3000 volumes.
Ken was led to Christ through the witness of Christian men in the Midway Baptist Church softball team. He then ministered to young people as a Sunday School teacher and served on the church Finance Committee. He was a gifted singer and speaker with a unique bass voice and was a member of the Church Chorale and Choir and performed as the voice of God in many Church dramatic productions.
Ken leaves a legacy of honorable, selfless service and devotion to God, his country, his family, his friends, and his community. His strong work ethic and unrelenting integrity were the foundation of his exceptional life. A life well lived, and a race well run.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 16, at 11am with visitation beginning at 10am at Sossaman Funeral Home in Henderson, NC. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Henderson, NC.
Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Henderson. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com.