Kenneth Leslie Agee

Kenneth Leslie Agee, 81, passed away on June 12, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona. Known affectionately as Ken—or Kenny to many—he was born on October 28, 1943, in Lordsburg, New Mexico.

Ken spent his early childhood in Duncan, Arizona, with his mother and maternal grandparents while his father served in World War II. After the war, the family relocated to Blythe, California, where his father worked for El Paso Natural Gas. Ken thrived in Blythe, excelling in high school athletics and developing the quiet strength and humility that would define him throughout his life.

While attending Brigham Young University, he met Shondra Reese. They married in 1966 and returned to Blythe, where Ken began his distinguished banking career in 1967. After welcoming three daughters, the family moved to New Orleans, where Ken accepted a position with the Bank of Louisiana. His career later took them to Gallup, New Mexico, where he held leadership roles with First Interstate Bank and later served as President and CEO of Western Bank for 15 years.

In 1998, Ken and Shondra retired to the peaceful community of Parks, Arizona. There, among the pines of Northern Arizona, he completed his career with Stockman’s Bank in Williams and embraced a slower pace of life. Parks reflected his soul—quiet, simple, and beautiful. In his golden years, Ken found deep joy in the forest, spending his time hunting, fishing, and soaking in the serenity of nature.

Ken was deeply committed to serving his community. He was active in the Chamber of Commerce, holding several leadership positions, including President. He volunteered with the Youth Entrepreneurial Initiative of the Southwest (YEIS) and the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, celebrating culture and connection. He coached his grandson’s youth sports teams with enthusiasm—often the loudest voice on the sidelines—and enjoyed playing adult softball well into his later years, continuing a lifelong love for sports and camaraderie.

A man of integrity, kindness, and quiet devotion, Ken’s greatest joy was his family. He was an extraordinary father to his three daughters and the proudest “Pops” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Shondra; daughters Lisa Begay (Brent), Amiee Agee, and Amanda September (Scott); grandchildren Terin Romero, Peyton Roskos (Michael), Carson September, Mason Begay (Meg), and Cole September; great-grandchildren Presley, Kenzley, Ridge, and Blakelee; his younger brother, Gary; and his cousin, Kathy, whom he loved like a sister. He is preceded in death by his parents, William Leslie Agee and Mary Earl Agee (Whinery).

Ken was deeply proud of his Arizona heritage, descending from some of the earliest settlers of the Safford Valley. He will be laid to rest in Duncan, Arizona, beside his parents and maternal grandparents. A Graveside Service will be held to honor his life and legacy.

Ken lived a life filled with more love than one heart could hold—a life of quiet impact and meaningful connections. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.