Kenneth "Kenny" Paul McDougal

Kenneth P. McDougal, beloved husband and father, passed from his wife’s loving embrace to the loving arms of Jesus on May 5, 2025. Ken’s 10-year journey navigating life after a stroke ended peacefully in his Hilton Head Island home at the age of 91.

Ken was born on July 31, 1933, in Beebe, Arkansas, to Minnie Mae Brown and Lawrence McDougal. One of thirteen children, he survived a difficult Oklahoma Dust Bowl childhood that honed a positive outlook and unbreakable spirit. His cowboy boots blazed a trail from high school in Stigler, Oklahoma-where he was an original “60-minute man” on the football team-to Nashville, Tennessee; Canton, Ohio; and many international destinations for business and pleasure. In 1953, he traded his boots for paratrooper wings in the proud service of the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne. Upon mustering out, he began a successful career in the insurance industry as one of Prudential’s leading agents in Nashville. Ken’s entrepreneurial spirit led him and his young family to Canton, Ohio, where he opened the Century Agency, providing property and casualty, aviation insurance, and coal mine bonding, as well as owning and operating Diwalt Optical. In Canton, Ken discovered a passion for golf and was a member of the Congress Lake Club and Ohio Prestwick Country Club.  A second career led him into the gaming industry and real estate, and in 1990, Ken moved to Hilton Head Island with his beloved wife, Marjorie, to semi-retire and pursue golf full time. His best days were spent on the links with golf buddies at Palmetto Hall. Throughout his golfing career, Ken achieved the rare feat of eight holes-in-one, a testament to his skill and passion for the game.  He enjoyed playing in various Pro-Am’s across the country.  A fierce patriot and “Yes” man, Ken was also an accomplished pilot, skilled card player, and a writer of poetry and songs. He loved dancing and especially all things Marge, the love of his life. Ken was a proud member of The Jaycees, Kiwanis, Lions, AOPA, NFL Alumni, Elks, and American Legion.

Ken’s contagious positive outlook on life never dimmed, even when he was confined to his chair. His steadfast love and faith in Jesus Christ were unshakable. Ken cherished the many visits from a multitude of friends and family, who delivered his favorite foods, books and engaged in lively conversation. He was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Mr. McDougal is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Marjorie; his daughters, Debbie (Fred) Smith of Nashville, Tennessee, and Phyllis McDougal of Canton, Ohio; his beautiful granddaughter, Hailey Smith of Nashville, Tennessee; and his son-in-law, Larry Dillworth of Canton, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his beloved children: son Dirk McDougal, daughter Lisa Dillworth, and daughter Angel Ashley Patton.

With overwhelming gratitude, to Manuel, our earth angel, who provided Ken with compassionate and excellent care and the many nurses, physical therapists and caregivers that passed through our door. 

Celebration of Life is June 29, 2025, 3:00-5:30 p.m. at Palmetto Hall Golf and Country Club, 108 Fort Howell Dr., Hilton Head Island, SC 29926.  Inurnment will be in Beaufort National Cemetery. 

Anyone wishing to express their sympathy, please do so by donating to Susan G. Komen.