SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Jerry Kenneth Scoggins, our beloved husband, father, brother and friend passed away peacefully on Friday, February 3, 2017, at age 79 in Saratoga Springs, NY. Ken was born Jan. 21, 1938 in Marietta, Ga. He was raised in Chattanooga, Tenn., where he graduated from Kirkman High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, and was stationed at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas. After serving his country, Ken attended college at the University of Tennessee and then University of Missouri where he earned his degree in social studies and education. He also earned his master’s in education at MU. Ken taught social studies and later became assistant principal at West Junior High in Columbia, Missouri. After a career change, he worked for Olin Corporation in Tennessee until retirement.
Ken had many interests. The Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis Club and Habitat for Humanity were organizations dear to him. He also enjoyed tutoring adults in reading. He volunteered his time and his love to those causes.
Ken devoted his life to helping others. As an Air Force serviceman, junior high teacher and advocate for many social causes, Ken taught us about sacrifice and empathy. He showed us determination in the face of health problems. Many kids in Cleveland, Tennessee, viewed Ken as their second dad because he always looked out for others. Our home often became ground zero for “Ken talks.” He always stressed the importance of education, and his faith guided his life.
Ken is survived by his wife Judy of 55 years, his three children Angie (Tony), Andy (Carrie) and Chip (Amy); his five grandchildren Megan, Spencer, Joe, Kendall and Karson; his brothers Jim, Bruce and Don and sisters Phyllis and Glenda. He was preceded in death by parents Rosa and Charley, and brothers Bob, Troy and Mike.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Habitat for Humanity. www.habitat.org. A memorial mass will be held in his hometown of Cleveland, Tenn., on Saturday, February 11th at 10 a.m. at St. Therese Catholic Church. To leave a message of condolence for Ken’s family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .
Dale Schewe
February 4, 2017 at 10:06 pmTo Chip and family,
So sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort and cherish the time you had with him.
Phil Miller
February 4, 2017 at 10:11 pmSo sorry for you and your family, Chip. Rocky Top’s a little lower tonight, I guess.
Janice murray
February 5, 2017 at 8:09 pmI’m so sorry for your loss. To know ken was to love ken. Always smiling always happy always endearing . You’re all in my thoughts and prayers .
Bea
February 6, 2017 at 7:27 amAngie and family, so sorry for your loss. It was clear from your devotion to your father that he was truly loved by his family. My thoughts are with you.
Zeb Hastings
February 6, 2017 at 11:21 amAndy my thoughts are with you. Having lost my father I know that fathers are non replaceable, however, your father’s memory will forever be your guide.
Kathy & Harry Hunnell
February 7, 2017 at 9:30 amJudy, Angie, Andy & Chip,
Ken will be remembered for his many kind deeds. He will always have a special place in our hearts for his and Judy’s dedication to the Cleveland Junior Miss Program. So sorry we will be out of town for his memorial Mass. So sorry for your loss and may sweet memories comfort you.
Our sincere condolences,
Kathy & Harry Hunnell
Anthony Spensieri
February 7, 2017 at 1:13 pmDear Angie and Family,
We were so sorry to hear about your loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences. May precious memories of your father help you endure this difficult time.
Uncle Tony and Aunt Carol
Debra Conner
February 10, 2017 at 2:05 pmDear Judy and family:
Ken was a dear, funny, brilliant man. Ray and I enjoyed spending time with you both as well as having him as a volunteer literacy tutor at OAR. His light truly shined before men glorifying God just as yours does, Judy. You touched so many lives while working with us at OAR. Our prayers are for your comfort and peace. Love to your whole family!
Ray and Debi Conner, Cleveland TN
Sherry Rochelle
February 11, 2017 at 1:21 pmWe are very sorry at the loss of this wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Our love Marcellus and Sherry Rochelle