Kenneth Wayne “KW” Sherwood went to be with his Lord March 11, 2023, at age 93. He died peacefully at his home in Opelika, surrounded by his family. KW was born on May 7, 1929, in Allen County, Kansas, to Fred and Gladys Sherwood. He was the eldest of eight children.
Upon leaving high school he joined the Army, proudly serving in the 82nd Airborne. While stationed at Ft. Benning he met the love of his life, Betty Mayberry. They married in 1951, and had five children. They settled in the Beauregard community.
KW worked most of his career at Becks Turf, retiring to enjoy his favorite hobbies: fishing, horticulture, photography and spending time with his grandchildren. “Papa Sherwood,” as he was affectionally known, was a kind and giving person with a huge patriotic spirit. He instilled in us the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. He was a role model who will be remembered with much love and admiration.
He was a long-time member of Providence Baptist Church, serving as Sunday School teacher in his early years and on the Cemetery Committee in the latter.
KW is preceded in death by his parents, sister Betty Gilliland and brothers Fred, Tally and Charles Sherwood, and his eldest son, Steve Sherwood.
KW is survived by his wife of 71 years Betty, children Sandra (Tommy) Lowery, Kenny (Diana) Sherwood, Randy (Diana) Sherwood, Jennifer (Tim) Hughes, daughter-in-law Dawn Sherwood, 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, sisters Rose (Leon) Johnson, Lois Ruby and brother John (Melanie) Sherwood.
A service was held at Providence Baptist Church East Campus on Tuesday, March 14, with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Burial followed at Providence Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Providence Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.
The family is grateful for the caring staff at Compassus and Enhabit.
