Kennon Ray McBride, SR

Funeral services were held for Mr. Kennon Ray McBride, SR, age 86, at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 405 East 5th Street, Homer, LA, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., and Rev. Perry Anderson, officiated. Interment followed at Tulip Cemetery in Tulip Community, LA. Visitation was at the funeral home from 9:30-11 a.m., prior to the service.

Kennon Ray was born April 23, 1939, in Athens, LA, to Emmett A. and Estelle Cardwell McBride. He entered into rest on June, 21, 2025, in Homer, LA. Kennon Ray graduated from Athens High School and attended Northwest Vocational Technical College in Minden where he became certified in welding, mechanics and drafting. He also over the years picked up the skills of machinist and fabricating. Kennon Ray served the country he loved in the U.S. National Guard. He met the “Love of his life,” Vivian Page, on a blind date in the summer of 1963. They married September 14, 1964, in Homer at the New Drug store and the pharmacist was also a Justice of the Peace who performed the vows. In 1984, Kennon Ray and his son went into business fulltime Ken’s Tractor and Machine Service which is still operating to this day. They worked on any and all types of farming equipment for Claiborne Parish and surrounding parishes. Kennon Ray’s work ethics was top notch and meticulous about every job done and tools he used. Work was his life, but family was very important to him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Collier McBride; and three sisters, Eula Faye Cole, Robeline Martinez, and Mildred Pate.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Vivian Page McBride; son, Kennon Ray McBride, JR, and wife Kim of Athens, LA; two sisters, Juanita Frye and Edna Fern Zappa; step-grandson, Clint Garrett and Ciera; four step-great grandchildren, Rylee and Brayden Aldridge, Jameson and Josie Garrett; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Kennon Ray’s family would like to express their gratitude to the staffs of both Presbyterian Village and Bristol Hospice for the care and compassion shown him.

Pallbearers were Terry Dobbins, Barry Dobbins, Kenny Volentine, JR, Jessie Albright, Ty Pendergrass, and Paul Armstrong.

In lieu of flowers honoring Kennon Ray, his family suggests memorials be made to Claiborne Parish Fire District #5 Athens Firemen’s Fund, 320 Gantt Rodeo Road, Athens, LA 71003.

Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Homer Chapel (318) 927-6110