Kenneth Malone Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Rodgers-Awkard & Lyons Funeral Home on Sep. 12, 2025.
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Kenneth Wayne Malone, 65, passed away on August 29, 2025. Services will be Saturday, September 6, 2025 beginning with visitation at 10 am and funeral service to 11 am at Greater Faith Church, 4205 Cane Run Road. Interment will be in Green Meadows Cemetery.
Born on December 27, 1959, in Covington, Tennessee, Kenneth was the cherished son of Selika Juanita and Thurston Malone. Affectionately known as "Kedawayne" and "Goat" by those closest to him, Kenneth's early years were filled with warmth, family, and faith. In 1965, he moved with two of his sisters, Pam and Blanch, to Pontiac, MI to join their parents and siblings. The Malone family were devout believers and active members of Antioch Baptist Church, were his father faithfully served as a Trustee.
Reserved by nature, Kenneth was a man who spoke most when it mattered. As the second youngest of nine children, he found joy in simple pleasures-watching cartoons, playing video games, fishing, playing tennis, immersing himself in science fiction films, and faithfully following Star Trek as a true Trekkie. His lifelong admiration for Superman, reflected his own character: steady, compassionate, and always ready to sacrifice for the sake of those in need.
At the age of 18, Kenneth began working full-time on the assembly line at General Motors, demonstrating the strong work ethic that would mark his life. Though private in his struggles, he was deeply devoted to his family. Kenneth gave generously of himself, often putting the needs of others before his own, and his quiet strength offered guidance and stability to all who knew him. A die-hard Detroit Lions and Pistons fan, he enjoyed cheering on his team as passionately as he supported his loved ones.
Kenneth's greatest joy came from his role as a father and grandfather. In 1979, he married Frances, and together they welcomed two sons, Antonio and Walter Thurston. In 1993, Kenneth married Flora and expanded his family with the blessing of two daughters, Cassaundra and Vanessa. He married his third wife, Teresa, in 2015, and while they did not have children together, they embraced the role of Godparents to Dalisha Jackson. In 2023, Kenneth was delighted to discover that he had another son, Jacob, along with four grandchildren-an addition that filled his heart with immeasurable joy.
Kenneth's legacy lives on through his four children: Antonio, Walter, Jacob, and Cassaundra; sixteen grandchildren: Deborah Ann, Malichi, Zane, Zoey, Joel, Jaisa, Raeanna, Jacob Jr., Riya, Renleigh, Alexandria, Jazmine, Brian, Zion, and Vanessa; two great-grandchildren, Aubrey and Noah; his goddaughter, Dalisha Jackson; and his siblings, Carolyn (Richard), Mary (Charles), Beatrice, Jerry, Pamela (William), Sylvester, Robert, Vivian, Cathy (Frank Lee). He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents Thurston, Robert Sr., Selika, his siblings, Reginald, Bobby Joe, Ricky, his daughter, Vanessa, and many special family members and friends that welcomed him home.
Kenneth will be remembered for his steadfast love, his quiet strength, and his boundless compassion. Though he was a man of few words, his presence spoke volumes. He gave freely of himself, encouraged those around him, and embodied a humble, patient, and yet heroic spirit that will never be forgotten. His life was a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and love-a true Superman to those blessed to call him family and a friend.