Obituary: Kenneth Robert Dunham
1956–2025
Kenneth “Kenny” Dunham passed away at the age of 68 on December 13, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Kenny’s unwavering devotion to the Lord was a testament to his steadfast faith during the past nine months as he battled pancreatic cancer.
A native of Lenoir County, Kenny was born on December 18, 1956, to Clyde Dunham Jr. and Ethelene Teachy Dunham.
On December 24, 1997, Kenny married the love of his life, Kathy Parker. For the past 30 years, Kenny and Kathy devoted their lives to serving God and shared a deep devotion to each other, their children, and their grandchildren.
Kenny served Lenoir County for more than 50 years as a member of the Southwood Volunteer Fire Department. As a charter member, he served as a former chief and president for many years. In 2011, Kenny retired as a lieutenant with the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office after 30 years of service.
A committed follower of Jesus Christ, Kenny’s faith was always central to his life. He served at Southwood Memorial Church as a deacon and youth leader and, in recent years, served at 902 Church on the collection team.
Kenny was preceded in death by his twin daughters, Auline and Elizabeth; his mother, Ethelene Teachy Dunham; his father, Clyde Dunham Jr.; his brother, Clyde “Click” Dunham III; and his brother-in-law, Jan King.
Kenny is survived by his wife and best friend, Kathy; his daughter, Kaitlin Dunham Wilson (Robert) of Griffin, Georgia; his stepson, Jason Parker (April) of Cary, North Carolina; his stepson, David Parker (Tara) of Holly Springs, North Carolina; his sister, Lisa King; and his brother, Sam Dunham (Kim) of Kinston.
He is also survived by seven grandchildren who will miss their “Pop Pop” terribly: Wyatt Parker, Emmalena Parker, Griffin Parker, Lochlan Parker, Rowan Parker, Rebekah Wilson, and Luke Wilson. He is further survived by numerous special nieces and nephews, the Byrds Breakfast Crew, the Pizza Villa Crew, and many close friends.
A celebration of life service will be held at 902 Church, 2009 Carey Road, Kinston, North Carolina, on Tuesday, December 16, at 6 p.m. Visitation will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to:
Southwood Volunteer Fire Department
Mail checks to: 1556 Highway 58 South
Kinston, NC 28504
902 Church
https://902church.org/give
