Kenneth L. Horne, a respected figure in the interior design industry, passed away on December 22, 2025, at The Hamptons in Tyler, Texas. Known as Ken to friends and family, he had a profound impact on the East Texas community through his work and service.
Born on March 14, 1930, in Mitchell, Louisiana, Ken was the son of Catherine and Lee Horne. Shortly after his birth, the family relocated to Gladewater, Texas, and later settled in Kilgore. The region was experiencing the East Texas Oil Boom, making housing scarce. Ken began his education at Kilgore High School, graduating in 1948. He then attended Kilgore Junior College, earning an Associate of Arts degree in 1950, before transferring to the University of Texas at Austin to pursue a degree in business.
His academic journey was interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army. Ken completed basic training at Camp Roberts in California and attended officer candidate school at Fort Benning in Georgia. After two years of service, he returned to the University of Texas to finish his education.
Upon graduating, Ken embarked on a career in retail, joining Sanger Brothers Department Store in Dallas as an Assistant Buyer/Manager in the home furnishings and design department. He excelled in the management training program, graduating at the top of his class. Ken worked at Sanger Brothers from June 1955 until spring of 1957 before returning to Kilgore to join Almands House of Furnishings.
Ken dedicated 35 years to Almands House of Furnishings, from 1957 until its closure in 1992, after which he established his own interior design business. With over 50 years of experience, he served clients across East Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. His professionalism earned him membership in the American Society of Interior Designers and the Better Business Association.
Ken was also an active member of the community and his church. He held a lifetime membership at Marvin Methodist Church and was previously a long-standing member of St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Kilgore. His commitment to service extended to participating in the Marvin Chancel Choir and various church committees.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ken was a member of Willow Brook Country Club and served on the board of the Amberwood Home Owners Association. His relationships with friends and family were invaluable, including his niece, Susan Diciolla, and nephew, Brian Gonzales, both from Wildomar, California. He is also survived by numerous relatives and friends who cherished his contributions to their lives.
A memorial graveside service is scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Kilgore City Cemetery. The service will be officiated by Rev. Buddy Powell and Rev. Brandy Stevens, under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home, Tyler.
Ken Horne’s legacy in interior design and his dedication to his community will be remembered by many. His life exemplified a commitment to excellence and service that inspired those around him.
