Ken Housh, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 75 on Wednesday morning, April 17, 2024, at his home in Swifton, AR.
Born December 13, 1948, in Newport, AR, to Harvey and Juanita (Rorex) Housh, Ken’s journey was marked by warmth, kindness, and a steadfast dedication to those he held dear. Throughout his life, Ken touched the hearts of countless individuals with his genuine compassion and unwavering generosity.
Ken was a 1967 graduate of Swifton High School and completed a BSA in Agricultural Business from Arkansas State University in 1971. He devoted 33 years of his life to his work with the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, retiring in 2004. He furthered his career with the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, retiring again in 2011.
Ken was known for his loyalty, dedication, competitive nature, and his love of “the game”. Whether it was playing or watching golf, deer hunting, or playing cards with friends, he approached each endeavor with a gentle spirit, contagious enthusiasm, and a good dose of competitiveness. His infectious smile and ability to find joy in the simplest of moments left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was a devout Christian, studying God’s word daily, and a member of the Hoxie Church of Christ.
Above all, Ken cherished his role as a devoted husband, loving daddy, and proud grandad. His family was the center of his world, and he found immense joy in creating lasting memories with them. From the age of 13, Ken adored his “Susie”, and they were blessed with 56 years of marriage, two children, four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ken’s unwavering love and support were a constant source of strength and inspiration, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend.
In his final moments, Ken was surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, who take solace in knowing that he is at peace. Though he may be physically gone, Ken’s spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched and the cherished memories he leaves behind.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents Harvey and Juanita Housh; sister, Bonnie Maas; brother, Gary Housh; and infant sister, Donna Housh.
He is survived by his wife, Suanne Hulett Housh and beloved dog, Lewey, of the home; two children, Eric (Ramonda, aka Mondi) Housh of Pocahontas, Beth (Mark) Ogden of Swifton, four grandchildren, Dylan (Maddie) Housh, Sydney Housh, Emily Ogden (Blake) Lee, all of Jonesboro; Adam Ogden of Swifton; and three great-grandchildren, Naomi Kathryn Housh, Hudson Scott Housh, and Ellie Anne Lee; three sisters, Vickie Maxwell of Bloomington, IN; Linda Higgins and Janet (Steve) Kincaid; sister-in-law, Lorene Housh, all of Charleston, SC; and many well-loved cousins, nieces, nephews, and life-long friends. Ken was also blessed with a special cousin and friend, Junior Hulett, who stood by him faithfully through the best and worst of times during the past several years.
In honor of Ken’s life, visitation will be at Jackson’s Funeral Home of Newport on Thursday, April 18th, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be at the Swifton Church of Christ on Friday, April 19th, at 2:00 p.m. with Bill Wheeler officiating. Burial will follow at the Swifton Cemetery.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Dylan Housh, Adam Ogden, Blake Lee, Cidney Hulett, Scotty Hulett, and Jack Robbins. Honorary Pallbearers include Albert Baltz, Chuck Couch, Mark Borton, Bruce Leggitt, Bob Forrest, Randy Ferguson, Ray Linder, Randy Young, Nelson Childers, Jeff Nicholson, and all his golfing buddies.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be sent to The Children’s Home at 5515 Walcott Rd., Paragould, AR, 72450.
