In Memoriam: Kenneth Nelson Soud

September 23, 1943 – November 10, 2024

A native of Jacksonville, Kenneth Soud was the eldest of four children born to Merck and Margaret Soud. He grew up in a close-knit Lebanese-American family, where Christian faith, family, and food were central to his life. His faith was nurtured at Mount Olive Presbyterian Church, where his Uncle Gabriel served as pastor.

Kenneth attended Robert E. Lee High School, was a proud member of DeMolay Riverside Chapter, and later graduated from St. John’s River Junior College, where he captained the Debate Team. He also attended the University of Florida and was drafted into the U.S. Navy during his senior year, serving as a Reservist for six years.

Kenneth’s career in life insurance began in 1967 with Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company, and he later joined National Life Insurance Company of Vermont, where he became General Agent in 1978. He retired in 1996 after serving as President of the National Life’s General Agents Association and both the Jacksonville and Florida General Agents and Managers Associations.

A lifelong active member of his church, Kenneth served as Elder and Sunday School teacher at St. John’s Presbyterian in Jacksonville. He also enjoyed supporting his city through the Jacksonville Commodore’s League and was a charter member of Epping Forest Yacht Club.

Kenneth was known for his hospitality, especially through his Lebanese food heritage, which he lovingly shared with family and friends. His home was a place of joy and celebration, and he always made time for conversations about his faith in Jesus Christ.

In 2014, Kenneth co-founded the Abdullah Family Foundation with his Uncle Gabriel, which supports faith-based grants and scholarships. He was also a Chairman of the Board at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary’s Jacksonville campus from 2016-2019 and earned a Certificate in Christian Studies in 2020.

Kenneth’s legacy of faith, love, and community will live on in the many lives he touched.