Tupelo (Stephen) Kenyon, a loving husband and loyal friend, left on his final journey at 4:44 am, June 22, 2018 in his home in Story, after a bout with cancer.
He was quick to laugh, easy to love, and funny as all get out.
He found his lifelong passion for playing guitar as a pre-teen when he noticed all the girls flocked to the guy who strummed a guitar. He was a brilliant musician, playing and performing on a variety of acoustic instruments, including his latest, the harp guitar. He wrote hundreds of songs, both instrumental and with lyrics, and recorded 16 CD’s worth of original songs.
With his wife of 40 years, Janey Wing Kenyon, they formed the musical duo, Laughing Bird in the late 70’s. They were fortunate to make a career together performing concerts throughout the United States and all over the world.
He produced and recorded countless local musicians in his music studio, Riversong. He loved those sessions of musical camaraderie and shared creativity.
He loved traveling each winter away from the Wyoming snows to the palm trees in the south. For the last 15 years, Laughing Bird played concerts from California to Florida.
Tupelo will be remembered for many things, especially his dedication and love for his friends and family, and his life partner, Janey. He lived life to the fullest, and on his own terms. He was at home both barefoot on a beach or fly fishing in a mountain stream. His spiritual outlook encompassed many beliefs and ideas. He made fantastic sourdough waffles. He was amazingly disciplined about accomplishing one major task before starting another. He had a keen sense of wit and humor. His gentle, abiding spirit radiated from his smile.
A musical celebration of his life will be held July 7th, 2:00, 9 Campbell Lane, in Story. Bring a dish to share, a chair, and a musical instrument, if you play. Memorials in Tupelo’s name can be sent to: Kearney Community Hall Renovation, 25 Canal Rd., Buffalo, WY 82834.
(From Tupelo’s song “All that we take with us”)
“Even though you’re hurting now, the hurting will not last.
The strength you gain from such a pain, remains when it’s all past.
Even this will pass away, like this life itself someday,
And all that we take with us is the love we gave away.”
With sweet gratefulness for sharing your spirited life with us, we wish you an adventure-filled journey, Tupelo. May we continue to hear your music in the breeze, feel your love in the warmth of the sun, and see your smile on the ocean’s glinting waves.
Online condolences can be made at www.kanefuneral.com.
Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
