With deepest sorrow we at Henryhand Funeral Home regret to announce the passing of Kenith State, 64, of Lake City, SC, who passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

Life Reflections

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is t strength of my life whom shall I be afraid."

~Psalms 27:1~

To God Be The Glory

On January 9,1961, Kenith "Kelo" State was born to Carrie Kennedy State and the late Leroy State.

At an early age, Kenith accepted Christ as his personal Savior and became a member of St. John A.M.E. Church. He attended and was a graduate of Olanta High School, graduating with the Class of 1979. After graduation, he joined the United States Army, completed his basic training at Fort Jackson and was later stationed at Fort Lewis in Washington, DC, where he served as a Tactical Wire Operation Specialist. Kenith was honorably discharged with the following medals and ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Sharpshooter badge. After the Army, he was employed at Pee Dee Pallets and later by Springs Cemetery.

"Kelo", as he was affectionately called, never met a stranger, because anywhere he went, he made a friend and no matter where he went he most definitely stood out. His personality and sense of humor was remarkable.

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, God called "Kelo" home to join his siblings, Donnie. Gwendolyn and Terry State.

Kenith leaves his loving memories to be cherished by: his mother, Carrie Kennedy State of the home; one loving daughter, Amanda Taylor of Olanta, SC; one grandson, Shyheim Platt of Olanta, SC; his siblings, Evelyn (Eddie) Barber of Columbia, SC, Tony( Melissa) State of Turbeville, SC, Sharon State and Jerry State both of Lake City, SC; four aunts, Ella Mae (Wallace) Graham of Lake City, SC, Geneva Hawkins of New York, Reatha Lewis of New York and Fannie Mae Woods of Washington, DC. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

The family will be receiving friends and family at 312 Dixie Road, Lake City, SC.

All arrangements and professional services have been entrusted to Henryhand Funeral Home of Lake City, SC. 843-354-2292.