Funeral services for Mr. Kennon Warren Whaley Sr., age 61, will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Benefield Funeral Home in Ashland at 2:00pm with visitation from noon to 2:00 pm. Bro. Richie Farrow will officiate, and burial will follow in the Clay County Memory Gardens.

Kennon graduated from Clay County High School in 1983 and from Auburn University in 1989. He was a devoted son, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who loved his family deeply. His love for his family was evident, and he was very proud of his children.

He was a giver by nature, always willing to help and provide for others in his own way. His generosity was a defining part of who he was and is remembered by those who knew him. Kennon was very tenacious; he never gave up at work, or on people. He was charismatic and never met a stranger, he could make anyone feel like family.

Kennon is survived by his parents, Wendell and Judi McLain; his children, Krys Whaley Lewallen (Tyler), Kennon Warren “KJ” Whaley Jr. (Ashley Anne), Kal Whaley, and Kace Whaley; his grandchildren, Murphy Whaley, Noah Lewallen, and Ansley Claire Whaley; his siblings, Kim McLain Hawthorne, Wendi McLain, and Scott Whaley; his aunts and uncles; and his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Seabron and Ruth Childers and his paternal grandparents Shell and Bertie Whaley.

Active pallbearers are KJ Whaley, Kal Whaley, Kace Whaley, Julian Riles, Todd Wheeles, Chris Wheeles, Connor Hawthorne, and Duane Nappier. Honorary pallbearers are Lin Saville, Jamie Walker, Brian Naugher, Chad Morris, and Brandon Morris.

Kennon’s legacy lives on through his family and the memories they shared with him. He will be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Flowers are welcome; however, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warriors of Alabama in honor of Kennon’s 15 years of dedicated service to the Alabama National Guard.

Benefield Funeral Home of Ashland is in charge of the arrangements.