Kenneth E. Dryer

Kenneth Edward Dryer (91) of Kansas City, MO went home to be with the Lord Jesus on Friday June 27th, 2025. “Kenny” as he was known to friends and family, was born August 15th, 1933 in Bolivar MO. He was the fifth of nine children to Wilbur Clyde and Florence Elizabeth Dryer. At the age of 18 he married Edna Rose (Stroud) on April 2nd, 1952 in Harrison Arkansas. Together they raised a family of four children: Barbara (Bill) Hathaway, Nancy (William) Landsman, Timothy (Rebecca) Dryer, and Thomas (Janet) Dryer. The family continued growing, leaving Kenny and Edna with 7 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren.

After they wed, Kenny enlisted in the Armed Forces and served as an artillery specialist in the US Army at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina. In 1956 Kenny and Edna moved to the Kansas City area, working for Goodyear and then for the Armco Steel plant until his retirement in 1988.

Not long after moving to KC, Kenny met Reverend Winfred Black while car shopping. As Kenny put it, “Bro. Black told me I didn’t need a car” and then invited him to church. Accepting the Reverend’s invitation, the family soon joined the United Pentecostal Church at 40th and Harrison (currently The Life Church of Kansas City.) “Brother Kenny” was a committed member until his passing.

Kenny never turned away a need he could meet. Being mechanically inclined, he was quick to turn a wrench to friend and family alike. He volunteered at The Life Church in multiple capacities: lawn mower, bus ministry driver, and even helped construct the church’s second building at 7020 S. Richmond with his own hands.

Kenny now stands before the King of Kings, reunited with his wife Edna (12/06/2022,) his parents & siblings, and son-in-law William Landsman (06/30/2021.)