Kenneth Lee Whitson

Kenneth Lee Whitson, 78, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Mercy-Southeast Hospital in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Kenny was born on June 19, 1947, to Earl Jackson and Mary Beatrice (Scott) Whitson in Morehouse, Missouri. He married Ann (Dial) Whitson on April 20, 1968, in Portageville, Missouri.

Kenny attended Southern Baptist College in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas where he met the love of his life. He then entered the draft where he proudly served in the United States Army overseas during the Vietnam War. After his release from the military, he obtained 4 lifetime teaching degrees from College of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Arkansas in 1973. After graduating, Kenny coached and taught school for 8 years. He was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans and the American Legion Post #153. He attended many Vietnam Veteran events up until his health allowed. Kenny was quite the history buff and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. He was a coin and knife collector. He enjoyed the simple things in life, such as sitting on the deck with his dog Sandy and spending time with his grandchildren. He liked watching his grandsons play basketball and other sports.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Ann Whitson; three children, Matthew (Molly) Whitson of West Paducah, Kentucky, Faith (William) Durden, and Jason Whitson, both of Poplar Bluff; five grandchildren, Brendan, Sammy, Baylor, Max, and Finley Jean; two brothers, Stanley (Judy) Whitson of Foley, Alabama and Danny (Brenda) Whitson of Pevely, Missouri; sister, Judy (John) Combs of Robertsville, Alabama; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Lloyd, Gilbert, and Lynn Whitson; three sisters, Jane McDonald, Renee Hoff, and Diana Radig.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 10:00-11:00am at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at 11:00am with Rev. Jason Lee Whitson. Burial will take place at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield with full military honors present.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mr. Kenneth Lee Whitson. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.