Ken Howton

Ken Howton

May 4, 1951 – September 22, 2025

Ken Howton, 74, was welcomed into the arms of our Lord on September 22, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 4, 1951, to James Sanford and Audrey O'Dell Howton in Crosbyton, Texas before moving to Oklahoma. Ken grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love for the land-raising and working cattle and horses from a young age. A cowboy at heart throughout his life, Ken embodied strength, resilience, and loyalty.

Ken was a graduate of Comanche High School, Class of 1969. He attended college at Cameron University and played football for Southwestern in Oklahoma, showcasing the same passion on the field that he brought to everything he did. Ken was a dedicated fan of the Oklahoma Sooners and loved all things crimson and cream.

On September 4, 1970, Ken married the love of his life, Jean Ann Frensley. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and music, raising three children, Shea, Lori and Gina. Jean Ann preceded him in death in 1989. Later in life, Ken found love again and he was married to Staci Leigh Pollock, who brought with her two daughters, Tanda Bingham and Baileigh Pollock. Staci also predeceased him.

Ken enjoyed life fully-whether he was riding his motorcycle, casting a line while fishing, playing a round of golf, making gifts for others from his woodworking, or cheering on his team. He loved Wednesday nights with his mother and other family members as they enjoyed their bean and lotto ticket night. A talented musician, he played bass guitar in Trek, a band he formed with friends, adding music to the many gifts he shared with others. Their final tour was their high school reunion.

He dedicated much of his career to Westran Corporation, where he served as the foundry plant manager. He was later a purchasing manager for EBI. In more recent years, he worked in security for St. Moritz, where his dependable nature and calm presence were deeply valued.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, James and Audrey Howton; his wife, Jean Ann; his wife, Staci Leigh; his brother, Jimmy Howton; and his sister, Debbie Couch.

He is survived by his son, Shea Howton and wife Mindy of Duncan, OK; daughter, Lori Journeycake and husband Gerald of Virginia Beach, VA; daughter Gina Lynn Luke; step daughters Tanda Bingham and Baileigh Pollock ; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and dear friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Honorary pallbearers will be his beloved grandsons.

His care has been entrusted to Carter-Smart Funeral Home. Services will be graveside at Resthaven Memorial Gardens on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 10:00 am with Pastor Mike McCord officiating.

Family visitation will be Friday, September 26, 2025 at the Carter-Smart Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Ken will be remembered for his grit, his love for the open road and wide-open spaces, and his unwavering devotion to family and friends. A true family man to the end, his memory lives on.

Online Condolences may be sent to www.cartersmartfuneralhome.com