Kenneth Scott Talley

Kenneth Scott Talley, 63, formerly of Toledo, Illinois, passed away on March 11, 2026, at his home in Effingham, Illinois.

Born on August 15, 1962, in Carbondale, Illinois, Kenneth was the son of Hulin and Marilyn (Brubaker) Talley. He spent most of his life in the Toledo and Greenup area as one of six children. Known to many as KT, Ken, or Kenneth, he greeted everyone with a friendly demeanor and genuine warmth. Even when corrected on his preference for “Kenneth” over “Kenny,” he responded with a smile and a handshake. He had a natural ability to meet people where they were, offering kindness without hesitation. Throughout his working years, he took quiet pride in every role he held and was remembered fondly by coworkers and customers alike. Helping others came naturally to him.

Above all, Kenneth considered his greatest achievement to be his son and daughter. He took immense pride in the people they had become, believing his purpose in life had been fulfilled as they far exceeded his hopes and expectations. He deeply enjoyed his grandchildren, not only through attending their events and celebrations but in watching the kind of individuals they were growing into. When his children shared the challenges of parenting, he listened with understanding and gentle support, quietly happy to see them raising their own families with such care.

Kenneth is survived by his children, Ciara (Mike) Daume of Effingham, Illinois, and Shea (Alessa) Talley of Conroe, Texas; grandchildren Lynlie Daume, Lincoln Daume, and Sienna Talley; brothers Marty (Kathy) Talley of Lawton, Oklahoma, Mark Talley of Toledo, Illinois, and Jim (Amy) Talley of Greenup, Illinois; and sisters Cindy (Dan) Ozier of St. Joseph, Illinois, and Yvonne (Tom) Hand of Effingham, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.