Kenneth Greer

On Friday, August 29, 2025, Kenneth Ray “Redd” Greer was called home to his Heavenly Father, with his devoted wife and daughter by his side. He was born on March 9, 1945, in Marshall County, Tennessee, to the late Mary Frances Greer and Loyal Endsley. Mary’s only child, she affectionately nicknamed him “Fireball” for his bright red hair. Orphaned at just 14 months, he was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Maggie Greer, and his Uncle Milten, alongside his cousins, who became like siblings.

At an early age, Kenneth gave his life to Christ and was baptized in the Church of Christ. He attended Nashville Christian Institute under the leadership of Principal James Dennis and the guidance of President Marshall Keeble, whose words about faith, hard work, and land ownership left a lasting impression on him. Marshall Keeble spoke to his “Keeble Boys” about how important owning your own land was and if a man doesn’t work, he doesn’t eat. He later attended Metropolitan Public Schools, where his strong character and determination began to take root.

Kenneth’s life was marked by resilience, dedication, and love. He worked from a young age—first as a golf caddy, then as a lifeguard. He later joined the team at Werthan Bag Company. While he was working at Werthan Bag, he had a friend that worked at Bridgestone, (formally known as Firestone) he asked Kenneth to put in an application for a boiler engineer. He did, and that transcended into what would become a 50-year career with Bridgestone. He was known to his co-workers, family and friends as “Redd”. He retired at the age of 80 as the oldest employee in the company’s history. A lifelong learner, he overcame his hesitation with technology to pursue advanced certifications, as a Master Specialist, proving that determination knows no age. Redd was apprehensive because he didn’t know how to use a computer, but the thought of advancing and making more money was a great incentive. He asked his daughter to show him how to use a computer. She did, and he took to it like fish to water. He never met a stranger, and he built lifelong friendships, especially with his dear friend Kenneth “Kenny” Knight, whose encouragement helped him reach new heights.

A man of many passions, Kenneth was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge, Mt. Nebo 67. He enjoyed hunting, golf, and stone masonry—a craft passed down to him by his Uncle Joe Murphy. With his own two hands, he built his family’s home on his farm, stone by stone. His farm was his sanctuary, a place of work, joy, and peace. Whether feeding the cattle, mending fences, or simply sitting on the porch gazing at “Greer Mountain,” Kenneth found fulfillment in the land he loved. His legendary hayrides and passion for agriculture inspired generations of young people to appreciate the beauty of hard work and the outdoors.

To those blessed to know him, Kenneth was a man of integrity, wisdom, and kindness. He cherished his friendships with Charles McHenry, Kenny Knight, Rufus Roper, and many others who became like family. He adored his goddaughters, Sheritha North and Tangie Nobles, and he found joy in every connection he made.

Above all, Kenneth’s heart belonged to his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Adonis Ray Greer. Left to treasure his memory are his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Pauline Mayberry Greer; his daughter, Mary Frances Greer-Terrell (Luis); his sons, Kenneth and Keith Greer; and his grandchildren: Tysen (Adasia) Terrell, Brysen (Sanjari) Terrell, and his pride and joy, Tatum Terrell. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Brylei, Adonis, and Gionna Terrell; a host of cousins, relatives, and friends; and his special cousins Joeann Hazelitt, Lois Pleasant, and Marilyn Porter Blakley.

Kenneth and Pauline’s love story was one for the ages. From the moment he made a U-turn on Jefferson Street to offer her a hamburger, he knew she was the one. Their love endured through decades, trials, triumphs, and blessings, standing as a testimony to faith and devotion. In his final days, his words reflected his deepest love and loyalty: “Take care of Momma.”

Kenneth Ray “Redd” Greer lived a life of purpose, faith, and love. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the land he cherished, the family he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched.