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Kenneth Curry Obituary
USMC (ret.)
1933-2015
LtCol Kenneth D. Curry, Jr. USMC (ret.) passed away August 23, 2015. He was born December 5, 1933 in Washington, DC but resided most of his life in Hattiesburg, MS. He was an Eagle Scout and graduated from Hattiesburg High School in 1951. He attended Mississippi Southern College several years before entering the Naval Cadet Flight Program in Pensacola, FL. He earned his wings in 1955 and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the USMC.
His first assignment in a distinguished military career was squadron VMA-333 in Miami, FL. His many other assignments over the years included; attending US Naval Postgraduate School for Meteorology. He served a tour in Iwakuni, Japan and one in Cherry Point, NC as a meteorologist. He was assigned duty to Marine Attack Squadron VMA-533 in Cherry Point, NC; selected for US Naval Test Pilot School, Patuxent River, MD where he served as a weapons systems test pilot three years flying A-4, F-8, A-6 and EA-6 aircraft. He completed Amphibious Warfare School, Quantico, VA after which he served in Vietnam, with Third Marine Division. After Vietnam, he completed his degree in Chemistry/Math at the University of Southern Mississippi on the Bootstrap Program. At the US Naval Test Center, Point Mugu, CA, he served as Project Director for Air-to-Surface Weapons flying A7-E, A-3, TA-4 and A-4 B, B. E. M. He served as Commanding Officer for HMS-12 in Iwakuni, Japan before being assigned to the NATO Defense College, Rome, Italy. After completing the school, he was assigned duty as a Staff Intelligence Officer at the NATO Defense Command, Naples, Italy for two years. He retired upon his request after twenty-three years of service.
Colonel Curry returned to Hattiesburg to begin what would be a twenty year career in education. He instructed in Chemistry, Physics, and Math at several area schools; Beeson Academy, Hattiesburg Preparatory, Columbia Academy and finally Lumberton High School. During his teaching career, he was bestowed the honor of "Star Teacher" seven times.
Kenneth and his wife, Marilyn, moved to Pensacola, FL in 1997. Since moving to Pensacola, he has served as President of the Board for Windchase Bay Condominiums for fifteen years or more. He was a member of the Pensacola Lions Club and a member of the Order of Daedalians.
He enjoyed his time with his golf buddies and the Thursday morning breakfast club.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Kenneth D. Curry, Sr. and Mary Curry.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marilyn, one son, Kenneth D. Curry, III and two daughters, Karen Zumbro and Cheryl Kay Curry; two sisters, Ann Aldridge and Patty Talbot; three grandchildren, Kristopher Zumbro, Kristin Zumbro and Cody Woolam and a number of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. on Friday, August 28th at Family-Funeral and Cremation on Plantation Drive, Pensacola, FL and inurnment with military honors on September 2 at 10:15 a.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery.
In Lieu of Flowers, please make donations to the Lions Club of Pensacola, Wounded Warriors or Fisher House. Family-Funeral & Cremation is handling arrangements.
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Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Curry
February 12, 2016
Semper Fi Colonel. Take care of "Heaven" with your brother Marines. I was proud to know you! WMH USMC
Kenneth Curry III
October 14, 2015
My Dad, you truly were a great man, human being, Marine Corps Aviator, and Christian, who God had chosen to be my Father, my role model, and who happened to have also been my Hero. I couldn't have asked God for a more wonderful Father. I only wished I could have listened more closely to the advice you offered while I was growing up and was stubborn. You have taught me so much about Life and set such a wonderful example for me to follow and emulate. We will miss you in Life here on Earth, but know God promises we will see each other again once he decides our lives here are through. You are the Greatest, my Dad. I know how you really loved flying and now you are really Flying, by God's side. Love you Eagle Bomb and Tiger Bomb will be awaiting the time of our reunion.
Kenneth Curry III
October 14, 2015
My Dad, you truly were a great man, human being, Marine Corps Aviator, and Christian, who God had chosen to be my Father, my role model, and who happened to have also been my Hero. I couldn't have asked God for a more wonderful Father. I only wished I could have listened more closely to the advice you offered while I was growing up and was stubborn. You have taught me so much about Life and set such a wonderful example for me to follow and emulate. We will miss you in Life here on Earth, but know God promises we will see each other again once he decides our lives here are through. You are the Greatest, my Dad. I know how you really loved flying and now you are really Flying, by God's side. Love you Eagle Bomb and Tiger Bomb will be awaiting the time of our reunion.
Peter Pappaceno
September 30, 2015
My prayers and condolences to the family. I enjoyed my conversations with Mr. Curry when I had the opportunity to engage in conversation with him whether we were in Mississippi or Virginia. He was a very nice man. Best Wishes and Prayers to Mrs. Curry and to the rest of the family. Peace Be With You
Trish Mussell
September 1, 2015
I was so sorry to learn that Mr. Curry passed away. I was employed at Etheridge Property Management and feel like I spoke with him or saw him almost on a daily basis. He was always such a wonderful man and I enjoyed speaking with him and listening to his stories. He always was smiling with a twinkle in his eye. On reading of all of his accomplishments, I know that he touched many lives. Anyway, I know he touched mine and I will truly miss him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends.
David Heitz
August 31, 2015
My condolences to the Curry family, and especially to my friend Karen Zumbro. While I did not know your father, what an inspirational life he led...serving his country, educating children...even serving as a meteorologist! Sincere wishes that you eventually find peace in his passing and allow his life to continue to inspire yours. I know that as I hold my own dad's hand (literally and figuratively) through an awful dementia journey, being inspired to live in ways he lived good while he could is how I try to find peace in the ordeal. God bless.
Mitzi May
August 29, 2015
Sincere condolences to the Curry family .I did not know Mr. Curry only in passing as we were walking our pets. He was always friendly and being neighbors he was the one to call if a problem came up. Reading some of the entries exemplifies what a wonderful and caring person he was to all who knew him. Blessings to the family
Kay Curry
August 29, 2015
To a wonderful Father and best friend. You will truly be missed. May this light follow you through your new journey. Love your daughter, Kay
Jason Oxenrider
August 28, 2015
My prayers and thoughts are with the Curry family at this time. I have the utmost respect for Mr. Curry. He challenged all of his students and was so supportive of all his students. So thankful God allowed our paths to cross!!
Debbie Miles
August 28, 2015
Fondest remembrances of the Currys from our days with them at Hattiesburg Prep. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Marilyn and family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Miles Family
Duddy, Debbie, Josh, & Brec
Susan Houghton
August 28, 2015
Dear Kay and family, Your dad was a great man and I will always remember him so fondly! He taught me chemistry and was very patient!! He holds a big spot in my memories of being at Beeson Academy. Hope you are doing well, Kay - haven't seen you in forever and think of you often. Susan Cook Houghton, Katy, Texas
Glenda (Lee) Davis
August 28, 2015
Mr Curry was one of the best teachers I have ever had. He cares so much for all of us. Thank you for the wonderful years at Lumberton. Gone but not forgotten.
August 28, 2015
Ken was a warrior and true friend. Stationed together at Point Mugu, we flew together, drank together and enjoyed family outings together. Marilyn and Ken were always in the center of our social gatherings. Ken was great pilot and fun to work with. He will be missed by all his squadron mates! I salute him on his final flight. Marty Lenzini (Col USMC Ret)
Amy Ladner Travis
August 28, 2015
My deepest sympathies go out to the family of Mr. Curry. He taught me Physics and Chemistry at Lumberton High and was one of the best teachers I ever had. His high expectations prepared me for college and law school and I will never forget him for that.
Denise Curry
August 28, 2015
Curry family, may the wonderful memories of the times you shared as a family bring you peace during this difficult time. I know I was blessed and extremely fortunate to have known Ken, he as a wonderful father-in-law, always making me feel welcome and part of the family. I am so sorry for your loss and will be here for you always.
Bart Halliday
August 27, 2015
When I visit Heavens scenes and see the guards upon the streets I pray that that day the O.I.C. of the Guard Mount will be you LtCol Ken Curry, so I can salute a mentor and a friend.
Cindy Malley Carroll
August 27, 2015
It was great working with Mr Curry at Lumberton High School. I know he will be missed. He was a very special person, a great teacher and friend.
Ricky Nobles
August 27, 2015
Kay and Curry family, my heart goes out to you all. Mr.Curry will always be one of the people that had a great impact on my life. He is the only teacher that got me to like math. Mr.Curry was my first real boss while doing building maintenance and grounds keeping
on the school. The advice he gave me during my junior year lead me to a 35 +years in a Aviation career. He took the time to encourage, inspire,and motivate a naive, socially awkward boy to never given up. I'm sorry that I didn't make the time to thank him. I'm sorry to say I only saw him once after graduation. I was on leave and he told me to stop by and have a beer. I will cherish that memory along with the numerous times we shared. God Bless , Fair winds and Following Seas Colonel . Thanks from your rust picking,squid friend. Ricky Nobles, FAA ASI.lol
Kelly Atwood Epting
August 27, 2015
I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Curry's passing. I, like so many others, was one of his students at Lumberton High School. He was a great teacher and great man. The last post I read was of him announcing his 61st wedding anniversary and then my mom called me today to tell me of his passing. As someone else said, heaven got another angel. My thoughts and prayers are with your family Mr. Curry. You were one of my favorite teachers. I also hope you know how much I appreciated you coming to my wedding. You will be missed by many. I know God has welcomed you into His kingdom saying "well done my good and faithful servant".
Stephanie Cottrell Brauer
August 27, 2015
Mr. Curry taught me Science in jr.high at Lumberton. He was an excellent teacher and funny. Praying for his family.
Ashley Howard Berghman
August 27, 2015
As it has been said many times already, Mr. Curry was a great teacher. Lumberton High School would not have been the same without him. My prayers and condolences go out to the family.
Jennifer Cottrell
August 27, 2015
Mr. Curry taught me 8th Grade Physical Science at Lumberton. His family is in my prayers.
Chris Schaefer
August 27, 2015
May Peace be with you forever. An exceptional mentor and person.
Kathy Eure McPhail
August 27, 2015
My condolences to the Curry family. What a great man and to have made a difference in so many lives.
Patty Rankin
August 27, 2015
Enjoyed working with Ken at Lumberton High School. He was a great colleague and an outstanding teacher.
Diz Gilliard
August 27, 2015
He was a dear friend and squadron mate and a truly dedicated and GREAT MARINE. Godspeed and save us a seat in the Ready Room. Semper Fidelis.
latoya hammond (jackson)
August 27, 2015
My condolences goes out to his family. Mr Curry was my science teacher at Lumberton High and he was a very smart and full of energy and all the students loved him for that. I remember if he found letters in his class he would read them out loud and we use to love it lol. So we made sure if we wrote letters it was never in his class. He will be truly missed RIP Mr. Curry, great man.
Jenyck Ladner Litolff
August 27, 2015
Sweetest thoughts to the family. Wonderful teacher & man. As I think back to high school Chemisty, I remember him always knowing what to say whether it was in a class lesson or a life lesson. He always expected the best from us. Much love & prayers
Edtrina Sibley Goin
August 27, 2015
RIP!!!! He taught me at Lumberton High Prayers are with the family!!!!
Barbi Cash
August 27, 2015
He was a great man! He will be missed by those whose lives he touched in so many ways. Mrs. Curry, our prayers are with you and the family during this time of loss. So many great memories of Mr. Curry.
Anthony Marsh
August 27, 2015
Praying for your family in your time of loss. Mr. Curry was a great teacher that taught me biology.
Sabrina Jordan
August 27, 2015
Rest peacefully....Mr.Curry...Excellent Teacher and Motivator!!!
Ginny Walker-English
August 27, 2015
Kay and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was quite a man with so many accomplishments, the biggest of which I am sure he would say was you! Please know that you are on my mind and in my prayers.
Lea Ann Jones Ulmer
August 27, 2015
Mr. Curry was one of the best teachers I had at Lumberton High School . A great man! I am proud to say I knew him. Your family is in our prayers.
Melissa White
August 27, 2015
Mr. Curry will truly be missed. He was one of my favorite teachers at Lumberton High. R.I.P Mr. Curry
Gloria Murphy
August 27, 2015
Sad news today, RIP Mr. Headmaster! My children (Mark, Melanie, & Mitch)are where they are today in life because of you.
Stephanie Johnson
August 27, 2015
I celebrate the life and legacy of this great man. He urged us to embrace life, love learning, and live well. I pray strength and great memories for those of us who remain.
Karen Wingfield
August 27, 2015
My prayers are with you all. He was the model of grace, respect, and dignity. He took a shy country girl from a tiny town in Mississippi and taught her to reach for the stars. Deepest condolences, Karen Jones Wingfield
Tammy Hester-Macias
August 27, 2015
I am so very sorry to hear of Mr. Curry's passing. He taught me Chemistry and Physics at Lumberton High School in 90 and 91. I remember Mr. Curry staring over his glasses and saying, "Hester, we don't have all day for you to answer." He never cut us any slack in class and because of that I graduated from high school and college with highest honors. Mr. Curry made such an impact on all of our lives. If we ever had questions about anything going on in the news, Mr. Curry would take time to explain it to us. He went above and beyond his teaching duties to enrich our young lives.
JoAnn Ehlinger
August 27, 2015
I always said that I learned as much about the real world in Mr. Curry's class as I did about the subject he was teaching. He was one of my favorite teachers. He will be missed. My heart goes out to his family at this time.
Roxann Merritt
August 27, 2015
Mr. Curry was a great teacher. I had him for Science at Lumberton High School. There needs to be more teachers like him. May he rest in peace and God be with his family in this time of mourning.
Ann Gatterdam
August 27, 2015
I just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear about Mr. Curry. He did a great job as President of our Association. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers to you, Mrs. Curry, and all the family.
Jim Gates
August 26, 2015
Mr. Curry was a great American in every respect; decorated US Marine, fighter pilot, and veteran of a foreign war, loving husband and parent, educator and mentor to countless young people, model citizen in his community, good friend, good neighbor, and I could go on and on. He will be missed by all.
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