Kenneth Ralph Sides
July 26, 1951 ~ January 1, 2026
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.
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Ken was a true man of GOD. He was someone who loved his family and friends. I don’t think Ken ever met a stranger. With his faith in GOD I know that he is with his LORD and savior. I know that I will see him again. He truly will be missed.
Sorry for your loss. I enjoyed the memories we shared in working in Emmaus. God bless you and your family.
Ken, you walked me through my first talk in gilmer. I remember having a three way conversation with you and Robert before the talk. It was a first for both of us. You were such a positive inspiration to me as I frantically prepared my talk over Christian Action. Your words of encouragement and smile that was bigger than the moon along with many prayers helped me conquer my anxiety of public speaking. You never once gave me anything but praise. When I got home from that talk I found my original version that y’all had and you had signed it “I love you Bobby, what a great talk and story..”
Godspeed my brother.
I met Ken, and his wife, Jan, at Church. He was friendly, and had a kind word for everyone. He is now with Jesus. Many Thoughts & Prayers, are going out to his wife and family, in their time of sorrow.
We met Ken and Jan when we owned an RV Park- they later moved to our park while building their home in Palestine. We 4 became great friends and have traveled alot together. Ken was a kind soul, he was such a giver. He was a beacon of light to many as he traveled and spread the gospel, shared his testimony and always listen to others attentively. Ken you will be missed. We will help look after Jan! We love you both and we will see you again! So long friend, soar! Heaven got a good one.
I Remember Ken from back in High School. He was an unforgettable guy. Its good to know I can look forward to seeing in heaven. — Jim Firmin, Fairbanks,Ak
So sorry to hear about Ken, he was a good friend. We worked side by side together for years and shared a lot of fishing stories. Jan, so sorry for your loss. Joel