William Kenneth Massey's Obituary
William Kenneth (Ken) Massey passed away peacefully at his home on December 26, 2025, after an extended illness.
He was born in Perry, Florida on January 29, 1944. He was a 1962 graduate of Taylor County High School. As a proud veteran, Ken served his country during the Vietnam war era. After his military discharge, he attended Florida State University, graduating with a degree in sociology.
An avid golfer, he found great enjoyment on the links, and as a graduate of Florida State, he remained a lifelong and enthusiastic supporter of the Seminoles.
Ken was a man of deep Christian faith, dedicating many years to teaching the kindergarten Sunday School class at Immanuel Baptist Church where he joyfully shared the love of Christ with young children. He and Judy enjoyed many opportunities to participate in mission trips to Central America.
He is predeceased by his paternal grandparents, William (Bill) and Arrie Massey; maternal grandparents, L.V. and Mary Hester and his parents William Ralph Massey and Mary Hester Massey.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Judy Dawsey Massey; his children, William Michael Massey (Nancy), Michelle Massey Simmons (Scott), Jackie Freeman Byrd (Steve) and Toni Freeman Bowden; a sister, Ann Massey Hamilton (Ed). He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Jessica Byrd-Compton (Jeremy), Christine Byrd, Hope Holton Carter, Seth Bowden (Ebby), Brianna Simmons Sheffield (Brandon), Mandy Simmons (Marcus), Michaela Massey, Abby Massey and nine great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Immanuel Baptist Church, 2351 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, with a service following at 11:00 A.M. Interment will be at the Tallahassee National Cemetery at 2:00 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Big Bend Hospice or the charity of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of William?
What’s a lesson you learned from William?
Share a story where William's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with William you’ll never forget.
How did William make you smile?
