Kenneth "Kenny" Ray Estes, a resident of Chillicothe, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2026, just shy of his 65th birthday. He was born the son of Donald and Loretta (Williams) Estes on September 10, 1961, in Kansas City, Missouri, Kenny spent his formative years on a farm, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. He later made his home in Chillicothe, Missouri, where he became a cherished member of the community. He was united in marriage to Paula Biswell on May 3, 1997 in Chillicothe, Missouri. She survives of the home.

Kenny dedicated 30 years of his life to educating the next generation as an Automotive Instructor at Grand River Technical School in Chillicothe. His passion for teaching and his commitment to his students left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of learning from him. He was also actively involved in various organizations, including the Chillicothe Elks Lodge, Chillicothe Eagles Club, and as a Skills USA sponsor. Kenny was a professional hobbyist who loved music, dancing, gardening, and the camaraderie of friends and family. Kenny was a dedicated father and an amazing Dad to his five children. He never missed a game or activity, he showed up to all of them. He was a man of few words but always gave great advice, in his own way, and never judged. His children always knew that he was in their corner.

Kenny's love for life was evident in his many interests. He played football in high school, enjoyed riding motorcycles in his younger years, and was an avid hunter and fisherman. His passion for music led him to create the Northwest Missouri Gig page on Facebook to promote new bands. Known for his humor and zest for life, Kenny was a joke teller, and a doomsday prepper, always ready for anything. He loved spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren in their many activities.

Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Paula, of the home; his children: two sons, Jason Estes (Brittany Snyder) of Maryville, Missouri, and Tristan Biswell (Kendra Lickteig) of Trenton, Missouri; three daughters, Jamie Robinson (Clint) Carr of Raymore, Missouri, Kelly (Michael) Smith of Chillicothe, Missouri, and Miranda Estes (Matt Jones) of Chillicothe, Missouri. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Logan, Austin, Amy, Marina, Liza, Gabe, Toby, Lexi, and Zoey. Kenneth also leaves behind his brother, Roy (Dawn) Estes of Cameron, Missouri, and his sister, Rita (Jack) Zotto of Kidder, Missouri, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Loretta Estes, his parents-in-law, Myrle and Barbara Biswell, his brother, Ronald Estes, and his sister, Carolyn Estes.

Graveside services will be held at Plainview Cemetery, Chula, Missouri on Monday, September 14, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. A visitation will be held at Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri on Monday, September 14, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chillicothe Elks Lodge for a Kenneth Ray Estes Scholarship Fund, please make checks payable to Paula Estes, and may be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, PO Box 47, Chillicothe, Missouri 64601.

Kenneth's legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family and community will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.