01/05/2021
Kenneth E. Yarbrough, a 50 plus year resident of Livingston, died peacefully on December 28, 2020. He was born on August 4, 1938 at home in East Texas along the Attoyac River near the Nacogdoches and Shelby county line to Eugene Yarbrough and Lucille Christopher.
Yarbrough worked hard along side his parents and siblings on the family dairy farm. He grew up in Shelby county and attended Center schools. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University and began his career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, then as an outside salesman for the Ralston Purina Company serving the many poultry farmers throughout East Texas. Married in 1961 to Norma Jean Hogan, they moved together to Livingston in 1969 and purchased an established farm and ranch retail business that eventually became Feeder’s Supply which they operated together for 25 years. He made many life long friendships during his time in the farm and ranch business. He even hosted a popular local radio show offering gardening tips and advice. A consummate salesperson, he reinvented himself as an independent insurance agent in 1993 and enjoyed many more years in his new career. He was an active supporter of his community becoming a member of the Rotary Club and volunteering with his children’s activities especially with the local chapters of the FFA, 4-H and the Polk County Youth Rodeo Association. Mr. Yarbrough was a Christian and was a long time member of the Livingston Church of Christ serving as a deacon, elder and Sunday school teacher. He especially loved worshipping the Lord in song. He was a good man, a hard worker and beloved by many.
Yarbrough is preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Troy and an infant son, Clint.
He will be missed by:
Wife, Jean Yarbrough
Daughter, Deanna Rickabaugh and her husband Marvin of San Antonio
Son, Jason and wife Sandra of Magnolia
Beloved nephew, Danny Stephens and partner Jennifer of Austin
He loved the grandchildren he leaves behind:
Kathryn Walker and husband, Clint
Natalie Yarbrough
Clint Rickabaugh
Amy Rickabaugh
Brothers:
Joe Yarbrough (Elaine) of Center TX
Spencer Yarbrough of Wills Point, TX
Bruce Yarbrough of Center, TX
Sister, Lagene Smoak and husband Jerry of Jefferson
Sisters-in-law:
Frances Hancock Williams
Debra Lawson Yarbrough
Many, many other relatives and treasured friends.
Due to Covid 19 safety concerns, no formal service is scheduled at this time. A donation to the Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.org) or to the charity of your choice is suggested as an alternative to flowers.
Funeral services are under the direction of Cochran Funeral Home, Livingston, Texas. Online condolences can be made at https://www.cochranfh.com/obituary/kenneth-yarbrough.
