Kenneth Gray Ketner

Mr. Kenneth Gray Ketner, 91, passed away peacefully due to complications related to cancer on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

He was the fourth child of the late Charles Allen Ketner and Zetta Nifong Ketner and was proceeded in death by two brothers, Billy Ketner and John Ketner; two sisters, Kathryn Ketner Hall and Shirley Ketner James; and his half-sister, Irene Nifong.

Born in Midway, North Carolina, Kenneth spent his formative years working on his family’s farm raising tobacco and livestock. Kenneth was a member of the first graduating class from North Davidson High School in 1953 and later received an associate’s degree from Brevard College. Upon graduation from college, Kenneth married the love of his life, Gail Marie Cockerham, whom he shared 69 years together. After two years in the Army, Kenneth returned to Winston-Salem and settled into a career with Gray and Creech as an office machine technician. Christmas of 1963, Kenneth and Gail became the proud parents of twins, Charles and Suzanne. Kenneth was a longtime member of Friedberg Moravian Church where he served on numerous boards and was a diener for over 40 years. Upon retirement, Kenneth and Gail embarked on many travel adventures across Europe and the United States. Kenneth enjoyed fishing, not only along the NC coast, but in local ponds and mountain streams too. He also enjoyed rabbit, quail, and groundhog hunting around the Winston-Salem area.

Kenneth is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Gail Cockerham Ketner; son, Charles G. Ketner; daughter, Suzanne M. Ketner; grandson, Christopher A. Ketner (Amanda Lucus); and great-grandson, Remington A. Ketner.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Friedberg Moravian Church with Rev. James C. Newsome officiating. Burial will follow in the church graveyard.

A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to thank the staff of Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Covenant Sunday School Class of Friedberg Moravian Church 2178 Friedberg Church Rd. Winston-Salem, NC 27127