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Kenneth Ralph Sides, of Palestine, Texas departed his earthly home and went to be with our Lord and Savior on Thursday, the 1st day of January 2026, at the age of 74. He was born on the 26th day of July 1951 in Astoria, Oregon to parents Elvin “AL” Elmer Sides and Ruth Ann Acton Sides.
After many dedicated years working in the oil field, he retired from Chevron in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment. Ken's faith was a guiding light in his life. As a devoted Christian he lived out his discipleship at Grace United Methodist Church and through his actions, spreading kindness and the word of Jesus wherever he went. His love for travel was a mission to connect with and uplift others.
A true people person, Ken found joy in fellowship and service. He was an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Christian Motorcycle Group, and the Lone Star RV Group. His involvement in G.R.A.C.E. Emmaus walks was a reflection of his deep commitment to his faith and his desire to support others on their spiritual journeys.
Ken's giving spirit was perhaps most evident in his work with the Kenai Peninsula Special Olympics. As a sponsor and participant, he championed the abilities and achievements of the athletes, celebrating each milestone with the same enthusiasm as if it were his own.
He is preceded in death by his parents AL and Ruth Sides.
Ken is survived by his wife of 53 years, Janet Sides; daughter, Jailene M. Bailey; brother, John, and sister-in-law, Kyong Hui Sides; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends who will cherish his memory.
The Grace United Methodist Church will host a memorial service to celebrate Ken Sides’s life at eleven o’clock in the morning on Saturday, the 10th day of January 2026 at 2130 Country Club Road, Palestine, Texas. Rev. Amanda Stratton will be officiating the service.
Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour before the start of service.
In lieu of customary remembrances, memorials in memory of Ken Sides can be directed towards any charity of your choice.
Cremation services for Kenneth Ralph Sides are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kenneth Ralph Sides, please visit our floral store.