Kenneth Lee Branning

Kenneth Lee "Kenny" Branning, 71, of Wellington, Kansas, went to be with the Lord on Monday, February 16, 2026.

Born June 21, 1954, in Wellington, Kenny was known for his kind heart, quick wit, and joyful spirit. Following organizational changes, he left his role as an aircraft industry inspector and found great happiness in hunting, fishing, following NASCAR and football - passions that often led to what he fondly called "the best nap of the week." He also loved racing his own go-karts whenever he had the chance.

Kenny truly never knew a stranger. He delighted in striking up conversations wherever he went, especially with children. With his playful sense of humor, he would jokingly offer his "tiny arm" as a distraction to youngsters caught sucking their thumbs or picking their noses - stating, "I used to do that look what happened to my arm" - a lighthearted gesture that usually ended in laughter and smiles.

A devoted man of faith, Kenny trusted deeply in the Lord's care throughout his life and made personal decisions guided by that faith. His greatest pride and joy was his family, and his warmth, humor, and steadfast spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.It was his trust that God would take care of him that led him to not take any of the covid vaccine shots. His love for the Lord was only rivaled by his unwavering devotion to his family so we remember and celebrate the remarkable life of a man who truly embodied the spirit of courage, love, and joy.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lori Branning of Wellington, KS; children, Tricia (Chase) Nugen of Belton, MO; Janae Branning of Denver, CO; and Jacob (Sonya) Branning of Wellington, KS; grandchildren, Madeline Nugen and Maxwell Nugen of Belton, MO, and Sullivan Williams of Denver, CO; siblings, Darrell Branning Jr. of Guthrie, OK; Terry (Pam) Branning of Wellington, KS; Sherri Wambolt of Wellington, KS; and Ricky Branning of Wichita, KS.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Darrell Sr. and Shirley Branning, and sister, Diane Branning.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Hillside Baptist Church, 2034 N. B Street, Wellington, KS 67152.

A memorial has been established with the Disciple Men's Fellowship, 123 W. 9th Street, Wellington, Kansas 67152. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory, leave condolences, or sign his digital tribute wall visit www.cornejofuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Cornejo Funeral Home + Crematory, 1030 Mission Road, Wellington, Kansas.