Loye "Ken" Kenton Norton

Services for Loye “Ken” Kenton Norton, 88, of Velma, are scheduled for 10:00 A.M., Friday, January 31, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Velma with Rev. Kerry Glasgow officiating. Interment will follow at the New Velma Cemetery. Services are under the care and direction of Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Velma. 

Ken was born November 5, 1936, at Countyline, OK to the late Mr. Ollie Clifton “O.C.” Norton and Mrs. Alta (White) Norton. He departed this life Monday, January 27, 2025, at Duncan, OK.

Raised in various locations throughout his early years, Ken ultimately graduated from high school in Duncan, ultimately laying down roots in Fort Worth, Texas. On June 26, 1954, Ken was united in marriage to the former Ms. Charlene Cooksey, and together they built a warm and loving home in Fort Worth. Ken dedicated himself to a successful career, beginning at General Dynamics and later finding a long-standing position at Bell Helicopter. His contributions to the aerospace industry were notable, allowing him to retire at the age of 55. Following his retirement, Ken relocated to Comanche, where he found joy in the simplicity of life. He cherished the outdoors, often spending weekends camping and fishing, activities that brought him peace and fulfillment. In addition to these passions, he proudly tended to his garden and delighted in exploring local garage sales, seeking treasures that could tell a story of their own. Ken experienced profound sorrow with the loss of his beloved wife, Charlene, who preceded him in death on October 25, 2014. This loss marked a significant transition in Ken's life, and following this heartache, he moved to Velma, where he continued to navigate life with resilience. Ken was a respected member of the Masonic Lodge in Comanche, an organization that reflects his values of community and fellowship. 

Also preceding him in death are his parents; daughter, Sharlott; son, Pat; grandsons, Steven Driver, Clifton Norton, and Jacob Norton.

Survivors include his son, Bobby Norton and wife Pam of Velma; son-in-law, James “Tony” Driver of Velma; grandchildren, Jad Driver and wife Sue, Mindy Fisher and husband Danny, Kelli Meyer and husband Jason, and Stephanie Hebb and husband Phil; 10 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren; numerous other family and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Jad Driver, Dylan Hurst, Danny Fisher, Grayson Driver, Weston Spivey, and Phil Hebb.

Honorary bearers are James "Tony" Driver, Johnny Boyer, and Jimmy Sanner.

Visitation will be held from 6 - 8 P.M. Thursday evening at the Alexander Gray Funeral Chapel in Velma.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.