09/13/2026
Ken Kackley Jr. a long time member of our post has passed away. He was very active in our post and he will be missed.
Holbert Kackley, Jr. Obituary
Holbert Kenneth Kackley, Jr., born in Thomas, West Virginia, on November 23, 1940, to Holbert Kenneth and Mable (Helmick) Kackley. Holbert, or "Ken" passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026. He was known, forging a path in life that was marked by dedication, service, and love for his country and family. Ken's early years were shaped by the warm embrace of a close-knit family and community. Growing up alongside his siblings, Nancy Poling (Fred) and Olive Hanes (Pete), and David Kackley. He is predeceased in death, by his beloved parents and younger brother David, whom he missed and adored. A proud graduate of Mountaineer High School in Davis, WV, class of 1958, Ken soon felt the call to serve his country. In January 1959, he enlisted in the United States Navy, dedicating four years to his nation. His service took him aboard the USS Saratoga during a significant chapter in history, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, where he concluded his Navy career in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Throughout his service, Ken's deep faith was a guiding light as he shared God's word with his fellow Navy brothers. Ken's commitment to service extended beyond his military career. He was an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and other organizations close to his heart. His dedication to his fellow veterans was unwavering, ever proud to wear his Navy hats and champion their causes. Family was in Ken’s heart and he leaves behind his two daughters, Margaret Hornbeak (Brad) and Kendra Gilmore (Dan), his three grandchildren, Brandon Hornbeak (Tessa), Brittany (Hornbeak) Brunet (Dillion), and Elizabeth Gilmore, five great-grandchildren, Annabelle C**n, Kinley & Hudson Hornbeak, Harrison Brunet, and Ryker Brunet, as well as nieces and nephews, who brought him joy throughout his life. When his girls were little, Ken was the director of the Morningside Majorettes, where he spent watching them twirl and traveling to many parades and competitions, he was a member of the Friends of Cedars of Lebanon State Park, and he shared many joyful moments hunting with his nephews and he loved taking to the dance floor with his Square Dance Group. His free spirit and giving heart touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Lebanon Rehabilitation Center, Quality Nursing Home, and Gentiva Hospice in Lebanon, TN, for the loving and compassionate care they've provided. A private service will be held to celebrate his life and the mark he leaves on all who know him. Holbert Kenneth Kackley, Jr. remains a beacon of love, service, and devotion, his spirit forever woven into the heart of his family and country. He will be laid to rest in a private service in Davis West, Virginia, rejoining his parents and brother.
