Kenneth L. Horne, a respected interior designer with a career spanning over five decades, passed away on December 22, 2025, at The Hamptons in Tyler, Texas. Known to friends and family as Ken, he was 95 years old at the time of his death. His contributions to the interior design industry in East Texas and beyond were significant, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and dedication.
Born on March 14, 1930, in Mitchell, Louisiana, Ken’s early life was marked by his family’s relocation to Gladewater, Texas, during the onset of the East Texas Oil Boom. This period was characterized by housing shortages, which influenced his family’s move to Kilgore, Texas. Ken began his education at Kilgore High School, graduating in 1948. He furthered his studies at Kilgore Junior College, graduating in 1950 with an Associate of Arts degree.
His academic journey continued at the University of Texas, Austin, where he pursued a degree in business. However, his studies were interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army. Ken completed his basic training at Camp Roberts Military Base in California before attending officer candidate school at Fort Benning, Georgia. After two years of service, he returned to complete his education at the University of Texas.
Ken began his professional career in June 1955 at Sanger Brothers Department Store in Dallas, working in the home furnishings and design department. He excelled in their management training program, graduating at the top of his class. In 1957, he moved back to Kilgore to partner with Almands House of Furnishings, where he worked until the store’s closure in 1992. He then launched his own interior design business, which flourished for many years, serving clients across East Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
Throughout his career, Ken was an active member of professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers and the Better Business Association. He was also a dedicated member of Marvin Methodist Church, actively participating in the choir and various church activities. Before relocating to Tyler, he was involved with St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Kilgore.
Ken’s community involvement extended beyond his professional life. He was a member of the Willow Brook Country Club and served on the board of the Amberwood Home Owners Association, illustrating his commitment to local engagement.
He is survived by his niece, Susan Diciolla, and nephew, Brian Gonzales, both from Wildomar, California, along with many other relatives and close friends who cherished his memory.
A memorial graveside service will be held on 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 in Tyler. Ken Horne’s dedication to his profession and community will be remembered by all who knew him.
