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Kenneth Edward
Durham
Jun 22, 1958 — Mar 30, 2026
Kenneth Edward Durham, 67, known to family and friends as Kenny, transitioned from this life into Eternal Life on Monday, March 30, 2026. He was born June 22, 1958, in Hot Springs, AR to the late Jessie and Lillian Chambers Durham.
Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law Princess Kay Durham, brother Jessie Durham, and brother-in-law Dr. Jesse E. Cooper.
Kenny accepted Christ at an early age and remained steadfast in his faith, keeping God at the center of his life. He was a dedicated part of the Roanoke Baptist Church virtual Congregation. He didn't miss a Sunday.
A graduate of Hot Springs High School, Class of 1976, Kenny went on to answer the call to serve his country.
A proud veteran, Kenneth Edward Durham honorably served in the United States Army from June 1976 to May 1990, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-5). Over the course of more than 13 years of dedicated service, he served both at home and overseas, demonstrating steadfast commitment and professionalism in every assignment. During his military career, Sergeant Durham served as an Infantryman, Pershing Missile Crewmember, and Subsistence Supply Specialist, reflecting both his versatility and dedication to mission success.
Kenny was recognized with numerous military awards and commendations for his dedicated service. Sergeant Durham's leadership, discipline, and service to his country stand as a legacy of honor and sacrifice. After his time in the military, Kenny made his home in Emporia, Virginia, where he met and married the love of his life, Curley Shaw Durham. They shared a beautiful life filled with love, joy, and cherished memories. Kenny loved spending time with his family. He especially loved family beach trips. The Durham Family Thanksgiving was the highlight of his year. It was never a dull moment when He was around. Kenny was a true Razorback fan. Football, basketball, it didn't matter. If the Razorbacks were playing, he was watching and calling his siblings to discuss the game. Kenneth brought light, laughter, and loyalty to everyone he met. Known for his quick wit and warm heart, he was the ultimate protector and best friend, making the world a brighter place.
His legacy of joy, humor, and unconditional love will live on forever in our hearts.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Curley Shaw Durham; two sons, Kenneth Edward (Martha) Sotelo and Zachary Roy Durham, both of Fort Worth, TX; daughters-in-love, Nikayla (James) Ransom and Alicia (Antonio) Coley; grandchildren, Zyasia, Zay'Vion, Zain, Amaya, and Omauri. Siblings: Arlene (Myles) Wilson of Memphis, Tennessee; Morgan Durham of Merrillville, Indiana; Rosa (Andre) Jackson of Hot Springs, Arkansas; Claiborne Durham of Little Rock, Arkansas; and Linda Durham Cooper of West Memphis, Arkansas. Aunts: Margie Reed of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and Willie Lee Grider of Sacramento, California. He also leaves a host of nieces and nephews, including his niece Camille Durham Thomas, with whom he shared a special bond, along with other family members and friends whom he loved dearly and held close to his heart.
The Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at11:00 am at Roanoke Baptist Church, 236 Whittington Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901.
You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.
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