Kenneth Haywood Cason

Kenneth Haywood Cason, son of the late Elizabeth and John Ed Cason, was born in Liberty, South Carolina on February 1, 1936.

He received his primary and secondary education in the public schools of South Carolina. After high school, he attended and graduated from Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina. In later years upon relocating to Albany, he continued his quest for knowledge and life-long learning at Albany Technical College in the area of Culinary Arts.Having professed his faith and belief in Christ during the early years of his life, Kenneth united with the New Hope Baptist Church in Liberty, South Carolina. During his years in Albany, he attended the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

On March 1, 1956, Kenneth heeded the “call for military duty” and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served with distinction. He was stationed throughout the United States and abroad, and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He received numerous medals and commendation for his bravery and valor, and advanced to the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. His final military assignment was the Marine Corps Logistics Base of Albany where he retired with full honors after more than 30 years of active duty service. Ken was not satisfied with idleness after his retirement; rather, he enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at Albany Technical College to further hone his culinary skills—a passion that was developed during his military career. He utilized his culinary skills in various capacities at the Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Greater Second Mt. Olive Baptist church, and Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

Kenneth was a brave and loyal soldier, as well as a patient and loving husband and father. He met and married Iona Cody in Albany, Georgia. With this union, they became a blended family with nine children whom they loved dearly. They shared a love for life and giving back to the community. Ken was profoundly devoted to his family and friends. He loved deeply, laughed often, and lived life to the fullest. In addition to cooking, he enjoyed gardening, listening to “old school” music—especially James Brown, Clarence Carter, and B. B. King.

On June 16, 2017, MGySgt. Cason laid down his sword and entered into eternal rest. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Carol Denise; and his brothers, John Ed Jr. and Louis.

His love and fond memories will be forever cherished by his wife, Iona; his blended family of children, Kenneth (Sonja) Cason and Judith C. (Patrick) Henderson of Dallas, TX, Edward (Sandra) Cason of Powder Springs, GA; Kathy Hodge of Dawson, GA, and Clinton Cody, Jr. , Dr. Carlos Cody, Cathedral (Bakari) Cody-Jones, and Kenneth (LaTonya) Cason all of Albany, GA; sisters, Rebecca (Milton) Robinson and Louis Cannon of Easley, SC; and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren; cousins, and friends.

A Soldier’s Prayer

 I humbly ask, oh Lord to give me strength, guidance, wisdom, and understanding in this time of darkness. Use my life as a shinning light, for your glory, illuminating these earthly bounds.I would be honored Lord if you would grant me the privilege to wear your Full Armour; Gird me with your truth; place the Breastplate of Righteousness on my chest; protect my feet with your Gospel of Peace; provide me with the Shield of Faith; and crown me with the Helmet of Salvation. I ask that you arm me with the Sword of the Spirit, your mighty word God. Therefore, I can stand firm against all the tactics of the evil one. Finally I pray for you to seal my soul with the Holy Spirit so I can wear your armour fearlessly with dignity and respect, as I engage in battle against any evil that encircles all my brothers, sisters, and me this day and every day.

For the Victory of Christ

Amen

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