Kenneth "Ken" W. Small Jr.

It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of Kenneth Wayne Small, Jr. of Horry County at the age of 47. Kenneth was born in Conway, SC to Kenneth and Gail Small and grew up in Aynor, SC. After earning a Bachelor of Science in finance, he went on to earn master’s degrees in international banking and economics and a Ph.D. in finance as well as several professional certifications in his field.

Never one to sit still for long, Kenneth was always learning new things and trying new hobbies. This accounts for the long list of credentials earned throughout his education and career as a professor of finance as well as his varied interests (some fleeting and others longer lasting) in activities like paddleboarding, cooking, gardening, playing video games, and even judging barbeque. Kenneth was known for his outgoing and fun-loving personality and his sense of adventure and spontaneity. At different times in his life, he was also known for various interesting style choices such as sweater vests, visors, Hawaiian shirts, and beaded jewelry, and for his eclectic musical tastes. He loved to travel the world, and made new friends everywhere he visited...and he visited a lot of places. Kenneth’s generous spirit and recognizable laugh will be missed.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his mother Gail McDowell, paternal grandfather Douglas Small, maternal grandparents John and Fanny McDowell, and his great aunt Johnnie Mae Timmons, who has probably already whipped him into shape.

He is survived by his children Liam and Emory Small, his brother Kye Small (wife Dana, children Kylee and Rylee), sisters Meshia Hemphill (husband Charles, children Caroline and Keyvee) and Brandi Warren (husband Josh, children Dixie, Charlie, and Jasper), father Kenneth Small, nephew Troy Small (wife Mikayla, son Kolton), cousin Georgette Timmons, grandmother Sara Whitner (husband Edward), and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him.

A celebration of Kenneth’s life will be held on Saturday, February 4 at 2:00 p.m. at the Aynor United Methodist Church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, the family simply requests that you take time to perform a random act of kindness in Kenneth’s memory.

Mr. Small is entrusted to the care of Kelvin F. Lewis, Funeral Director, and Lewis Crematory & Funeral Services of Myrtle Beach, SC.

(843) 294-0011

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