Ken Gafford

Kenneth Richard Gafford, (Ken) passed away Saturday, February 15, 2025, and went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Monroe and Mary Clyde Gafford.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Jeananne “Jeanie” Gafford; his son, Kelly Gafford and daughter-in-law Karen; and his cherished grandchildren, Kelly Ray, Kenneth Scott and Jeanetta Brianne. He also leaves behind his sister, Gwen Carley and her husband Roy. Other family members mourning his loss are Julie Gafford, Trish Graham, Chris Bogard, Emma Bogard, Michelle Worthy and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ken was born in San Antonio, Texas but moved at an early age to Big Spring, Texas where he spent all his childhood years. He graduated from Big Spring High School and tried college but soon learned that additional schooling was not for him.  

A proud patriot, he answered the call to duty and served his country in the U.S Navy for four years. During this time, his ship, the USS Cochran had three tours patrolling the shores of the Tokin Gulf of Vietnam during that war. Planning a career in the service, it was during a leave from his service that fate intervened, and he met the love of his life, Jeanie, on a blind date on January 19, 1967. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage just three weeks later February 11, 1967, that ended 58 years and 4 days later.

Ken’s military service took him to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, where he was stationed until the end of his final tour. Returning to Big Spring, he joined his father at Universal Body Works, eventually taking ownership of the family business. Later in his career, he dedicated 20 years of service as an adjuster for GEICO, retiring to Bastrop, Texas.

A devout Christian, Ken served as a deacon at First Baptist Church. He was also active in many of the other missions of the church. He was a past master of the Masons and was a member of the Shrine where he was one of the founders of the Big Spring Shrine Motor Patrol. He also supported children suffering from scoliosis. Ken was a devoted husband and father, deeply committed to his family. He was a licensed pilot and a certified scuba diver. He enjoyed riding with the Shriner's motor patrol and cherished his time at the beach, spending several weeks there each year.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the hospice nurses for their compassionate care in Ken's final weeks. And to all the prayer warriors at First Baptist Church for the prayers, meals and thoughtful wishes throughout this time.

A time of visitation will be held on March 6th at 10:00 AM, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM, both will be held at First Baptist Church, 1201 Water St, Bastrop, TX 78602.