William P. (Ken) Kenworthy

William P. (Ken) Kenworthy, who passed away in 2007 at age 59, was a talented employee benefits lawyer. Ken was inducted into the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel (the “College”) in 2000 as a Charter Fellow.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX in 1969. Commissioned as an officer in the U. S. Navy in 1969, he served on active duty aboard the U.S.S. Wasp until 1972. He later served aboard the U.S.S. Harold J. Ellison. He attained the rank of Lieutenant and was a member of the Navy League. Ken earned his Juris Doctor degree from Memphis State University School of Law in 1974.

A partner since 1982 at Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell and Berkowitz, PC, Ken practiced employee benefits (including employee benefits litigation) and executive compensation law for over 30 years in Memphis, TN, until his death.

A frequent speaker and writer, Ken was active in several bar and employee benefits organizations including the Employee Benefits Committee of the Tax Section of the American Bar Association, the Southern Employee Benefits Committee (serving on its Program, Legislative, and Communications Committees), and the Greater Memphis Employee Benefits Council (Charter Member and Director). His publications included an article on qualified plan and IRA distributions for Probate and Property in 1995.

Ken was respected for his high level of service to his clients, his law firm and the legal community in general. Colleagues recalled that he was thoughtful in his analysis of a problem and practical in his advice to clients. He was sought out as a mentor.

Among his most enduring civic legacies was his over 30 years of service (including as president) to Memphis area Boy Scouts of America. An Eagle Scout himself, Ken believed that, under proper leadership, scouting made a real difference in a young man’s life. His colleagues and friends recalled him as loyal and generous, always willing to help.

Photo Source: The Decade Book, American College of Employee Benefits Counsel 2000-2010