Kenneth Lee Hosea

Kenneth Lee Hosea, a cherished father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend, was born on January 5, 1957, in Dallas, Texas, and peacefully left this world on April 27, 2026, with his two children by his side. He resided in Yantis, Texas, where he filled his days with creativity, adventure, and an unwavering love for his family.

Kenneth was not just a retired member of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice; he was a beloved figure in the community, known for his vibrant imagination, gifted handiwork, and a true servant's heart. Alongside his late father, he operated Hosea Boat Manufacturing, later known as Renegade Boats, in Quitman, where his passion for working with his hands truly shined. Ken was known for his skilled taxidermy, with special attention to detail and care behind every creation. Over the years, his creativity-usually rooted in humor and thinking far outside the box-took on a life of its own. Most recently, he designed and built a life-size Bigfoot family that he proudly showed off to anyone who asked if he "believed."

Ken spent much of his life on Lake Fork, where fishing and hunting weren't just hobbies-they were part of who he was. Being outdoors-working, tinkering, or dreaming up his next creation-was where he felt most at home. Talking hunting and fishing was always one of his favorite pastimes. He was a proud member of the National Rifle Association and the Texas Trophy Hunters Association. Over the years, he also developed a love for NASCAR, where he met many great friends and created lasting memories with his family.

Ken also took great pride in baking and delivering sweet treats to family, friends, and others in the community-small gestures meant to brighten their day and bring a smile to their face, even if it meant several trips to the post office to make sure they reached everyone he was thinking of.

But above all, Ken's greatest joy came from his family. He took immense pride in being a father to his daughter, Katelan Hosea Harris, her husband, David, and their children, Dawson, Parker, and Evelyn; and his son, Matthew Hosea, his wife, Courtney, and their children, Logyn and Collyns. His two kids, Katie and Matt, were truly the light of his life. He would go without so they could have more, always putting their happiness first. Never more than a phone call away, he would give the shirt off his back-or his very last penny-to ensure they were cared for and smiling.

He was a devoted brother to Mike Hosea and Sherrell Hosea Przybylski. As the big brother, Ken shared in both the mischief and the milestones-getting into trouble alongside his siblings in their younger years, and later becoming a constant protector and source of guidance. Whether his advice was welcomed or not, it was always given with love as they grew and navigated life together.

But Ken's heart especially belonged to his grandgirls -- Parker, Logyn, Evelyn, and Collyns. He found every excuse to see them and carried them with him wherever he went-keeping countless pictures and videos on his phone, always ready to show anyone and everyone who would look. His home is filled with their pictures, handmade artwork, and even small treasures-like the rocks they collected and proudly gave to him-which he kept as priceless reminders of their love.

Ken was also a deeply loved uncle to Alana Hosea Espy of Prosper, along with her husband, Bob, and their son, Gage; and to Crystal Hosea McCarty of Stephenville and her husband, Jace. He remained a steady presence in their lives, offering guidance, encouragement, and love. He was known for checking in often and sending homemade cookies whenever he could-small gestures that meant everything.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Derrell and Shirley Hosea, and his brother, Mike Hosea.

As we celebrate Ken's extraordinary life, we invite family and friends to join us for a memorial service honoring his memory at Beaty Funeral Home Chapel in Mineola on May 16, 2026, at 3:00 PM. We will come together to share stories, laughter, and love, just as he would have wanted, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends.

Kenneth Lee Hosea will be fondly remembered for his kindness, creativity, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. His spirit lives on in the memories we hold and the love he gave so freely.