Kenneth Eugene Saxton Sr

Kenneth Eugene Saxton Sr., 83, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at Arbors at Marietta in Marietta, Ohio. A lifelong adventurer, Ken had called nearly a dozen states home over the years.

The oldest of eight children, Ken was born on March 18, 1943, in Jamestown, Ohio, to the late James Herschel and Marjorie Louise (Stackhouse) Saxton.

At 17, Ken left high school during his junior year to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, serving from 1960 to 1967. During and shortly after his service, he worked as a head cook, delighting in creating meals and feeding groups of friends. Ken went on to work with a nationwide moving company, which evolved into his lifelong career as an over-the-road truck driver. His CB handle was “Casper,” a nickname from his Marine days.

In August 1968, Ken met Sandra Patricia West in the kitchen of a fancy hotel in Florida. They married that New Year’s Eve and shared 54 loving years together until Sandy’s passing in January 2023.

An avid reader of mystery novels, Ken also enjoyed cooking, painting landscapes, photography, golf, and simply sitting on the porch while whistling a tune.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra; his parents; his brother James H. Saxton Jr. (who passed at age 20 while serving in the Navy); sisters Connie Saxton and Bonnie Cook; and an infant grandson, James B. Saxton Jr.

He is survived by his children: sons Kenneth Saxton Jr. (Catherine) of Circleville, Ohio, and James Saxton Sr. of Fort Pierce, Florida; daughter Patricia Banbury (Chris) of Gambier, Ohio; grandchildren (in order of age) Nathan Ihrig, Shawn Benton, Michelle Saxton, Matthew Ihrig, Willow Luccia, and Logan Saxton; great-grandchildren Mitchell White, Everett Ihrig, and Lily Ihrig; and siblings Keith Saxton (Mary), Mike Saxton (Bonnie), and Betty Flora (Kenny).

Per Ken’s wishes, there will be no immediate service. In about a year’s time, the family will hold an intimate gathering to spread Ken and Sandy’s ashes together.

Ken lived a rich life full of service, creativity, and quiet joys. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.