Kenneth M. Israel, 86, passed away peacefully in his home on Friday, August 30, 2024.
He was born in Nash County, NC to Monnie and Bettie. He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Priscilla C. Israel. The “Children of Israel” were blessed to have you both as our parents. Kenneth and his wife, Priscilla touched so many lives during their lives.
He served 20 years in the U.S. Army as a Medic in Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. He was the NCOIC of the Ft. Eustis Pediatric Clinic at the time of his retirement with the rank of Sergeant First Class. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal (7th Award), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Presidential Unit Citation. He qualified for the Expert Badge with the M-14 and M-16 Rifles.
While stationed at McDonald Army Community Hospital, he served on the committee to design the Unit Crest MEDICINE IN MOTION which is still in use today outside of the main pharmacy at the Post Exchange.
In 2023, He was awarded with a Quilt of Valor and the Congressional Vietnam War Commemoration Pin.
He is a member of Stevens Memorial Baptist Church in Newport News, VA and was an Ordained Deacon.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Erma, Thelma, Lloyd, Monnie Jr, Harvey, Evelyn, George and Arthur. He is survived by his children, Mark Israel, Beth (Joseph) Gosdzinski, Naomi Israel, Wanda (Steve) Pendleton; sister, Doris Joyner; sister in-law, Dinah (Paul) Garant; 11 Grandchildren; 4 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great-Great Grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at Stevens Memorial Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia.
Donations in Lieu of flowers may be made to Stevens Memorial Baptist Church Newport News, VA for the Prayer Garden. If you choose to send flowers, please send a Yellow Rose.
