Kenneth E. Morgan, often known to friends and family as Ken, Kenny, Shaky and Captain Morgan, passed peacefully on July 4, 2026.
Kenneth was born in Ronceverte, WV, to Macel and Wiley Morgan. His grandmother, Lola, was a major force in his early childhood. Kenneth moved to Charleston as a young boy, yet Ronceverte was always a special place for him and his family.
At the young age of 19, and an only son while attending West Virginia State College, Kenneth was drafted and served in the Vietnam War as a ‘boots on the ground” soldier, serving one year, nine months and eighteen days with the 196th Infantry as a Sergeant. He earned The Army Commendation Medal for Heroism among many other wartime Medals.
Kenneth proudly served as a Charleston Firefighter, where he retired as Captain. He loved the camaraderie that came with serving his community alongside fellow firefighters and cherished the many memories and friendships that continued throughout his life. After retiring, he was appointed to serve on the State Fire Commission where he made many lifelong friends, most notably Joe Bostar and Vic Stallard.
Kenneth leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Jean, and their two daughters, Kemberly and Kristi, and son-in-law, Jim Snyder. Kenneth took great pride in watching and being a part of his grandsons’ life. He watched as they grew into the honorable, valued and cherished young men that they are. His grandsons are Ben Fairless, and Cole, Seth and Owen Snyder. Kenneth leaves behind his Aunt Mary, who was a valued part of his life. He was a very special friend to his brothers and sisters-in-law, Gary and Mary Tucker and Eb and Dian Mitchell.
Kenneth was a man of few words. He was a gentleman with a quiet strength and dignity who was patient, loving, caring, consistent, dependable, humble and kind.
The family will have a private graveside service with full military honors at a future date.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to HospiceCare, 1606 Kanawha Blvd., W, Charleston, WV 25387 or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.snodgrassfuneral.com and selecting the obituary. Arrangements are in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, South Charleston, WV.