Kenneth L. Horne, a respected interior designer with over 50 years of experience, passed away on December 22, 2025, at The Hamptons in Tyler, Texas. He was 95 years old. Known affectionately as Ken, he was a significant figure in the East Texas interior design community, serving clients across Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
Born on March 14, 1930, in Mitchell, Louisiana, to parents Catherine and Lee Horne, Kenneth’s family relocated to Gladewater, Texas, shortly after his birth. They later moved to Kilgore, Texas, where Kenneth began his education at Kilgore High School, graduating in 1948. He pursued higher education at Kilgore Junior College, earning an Associate of Arts degree in 1950. He then enrolled in the University of Texas at Austin to study business.
Kenneth’s academic journey was interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army. He completed his basic training at Camp Roberts Military Base in California and later attended officer candidate school at Fort Benning, Georgia. After two years of service, he returned to the University of Texas to complete his education.
In June 1955, Kenneth began his professional career at Sanger Brothers Department Store in Dallas, where he worked in the home furnishings and design department as an Assistant Buyer/Manager. He excelled in the management training program, graduating at the top of his class. His tenure at Sanger Brothers lasted until spring 1957, when he moved back to Kilgore to join Almands House of Furnishings. Kenneth remained there until the store closed in 1992, at which point he opened his own interior design business.
Throughout his career, Kenneth was actively involved in various professional organizations, including the American Society of Interior Designers and the Better Business Association. He was also a lifetime member of Marvin Methodist Church, previously participating in the choir and adult classes at St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Kilgore.
Kenneth’s community involvement extended beyond his professional pursuits. He was a member of the Willow Brook Country Club and served on the board of the Amberwood Homeowners Association. His contributions to the community and his church were well-recognized and cherished.
He is survived by his niece, Susan Diciolla, and nephew, Brian Gonzales, both from Wildomar, California. Additional relatives and friends include Virginia and Paul Low, Frank Parker, Avery Bengtson, Maurice Wingo, Steve Pickett, and Mary Lynn Powell.
A memorial graveside service will be held on December 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Kilgore City Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Buddy Powell and Rev. Brandy Stevens. The service is under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home in Tyler. Kenneth L. Horne’s legacy as a dedicated professional and beloved community member will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
