Kennis McKinley English

Kennis McKinley English passed away peacefully of natural causes in Aurora, Colorado on July 10, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on February 3, 1938, in Trinity, Texas to his mother, Hattie Lee English and father, Kennis McKinley English, the junior Kennis grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. In 1955, at just 17 years old, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a distinguished 22-year military career that extended through 1977. His service took him to bases around the globe, including deployments in California, Hawaii, Japan, and Colorado.

During his first assignment in Japan, Kennis met the love of his life, Kiyo Oba, whom he married on December 23, 1959. Later, while stationed in Hawaii, they welcomed their two sons, Kris McKinley (b. 1964) and Gary Lawrence (b. 1966). Alongside his military duties, Kennis proudly pursued his education with a strong determination, earning his high school GED, a Bachelor’s degree in History, and two Master’s degrees—one in Education and another in Business Administration—all during his time in active service.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1977, Kennis made his home in Aurora, Colorado, where he lived for nearly 50 years. He spent his second career working as a Computer Systems Analyst for the regional telephone company, raising his family, and later working as a real estate agent during his retirement years.

Kennis was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kiyo Oba English (2024); his parents, Hattie Lee English and Kennis McKinley English; and his sister, Marie Freeman.

He is survived by his two sons, Kris English (61) and Gary English (60); his sisters, Annette Seymour (67) and Toni Elaine Jones (72); his three grandchildren, Abby Annable (34), “Izzy” English (25), and Maxwell English (22); his great-grandson, Christopher “CJ” Henry (11); and a loving extended family of nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services

A memorial open house to celebrate Kennis's life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Horan & McConaty (11150 E. Dartmouth Ave., Aurora, CO 80014). Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor his legacy.