William Kenney

William F. Kenney

William F. Kenney, 91, beloved son, husband and father, and brother was called to his eternal resting place on April 22, 2020. He entered this world on June 6, 1928 in Amherst, TX, born to Claud Vincent Kenney and Clyda Mae Bates Kenney. Bill has a living sister, Florence (known as Sis) who resides in Redding, CA and four brothers and one other sister that preceded him in death. He also leaves fourteen grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild who will miss him greatly. He is survived by his six children; daughter and son-in-law, Fae and Bobby Harper, Ruidoso, NM; Inez and Jerry Johnson, Norman, OK; Brenda and Dr. Mac McNight, Ruidoso, NM; Lenore & Michael Warden, Norman OK and two sons, William F Kenney II, Niland, CA and Austin & Evelyn Kenney, Grand Prairie, TX.

His friends knew him as Bill. He was called “Billy Floyd” in childhood. He served in the U. S Army from 1951 to 1953, and before that helped in the war effort by working in a plant while living in Ogden Utah.

He and his wife of 32 years, Elizabeth J Kenney, met in Roswell NM and raised their combined family there. Bill worked as a parts man for Spitzer Electric and did auto body paint and repair on the side for many years. He worked as an instructor at ENMU-R, OTC teaching oil field training, auto-parts and body from 1982 through 1988. Dad retired and took over the family business from his older brother, Gene Kenney. He owned and operated A-1 Reupholster shop on W. Main St until his retirement. His business partner, best friend and devoted caretaker, Rudy Rodriguez, continues to operate the business.

Bill enjoyed visiting his cabin, planting flowers and trees in his backyard and pulling weeds daily. He was very active in his church and a devoted Christian man. Bill was loved by many for his gentle spirit and quick wit and will be missed by us all.

Graveside service will be held at 10:30 am, Friday, November 6, 2020 at South Park Cemetery with Deacon Sam Chaves officiating.