Kenneth "Ken" Crawford Traynham

Kenneth Crawford Traynham, known to those who loved him as Ken, or Kenny in his youth, passed away on May 7, 2026, at Duke Family Pavillion after a period of declining health.

Ken was born on October 12, 1945 in Charlotte, North Carolina. From an early age, he showed a sharp mind and a quiet determination that would define his life. He pursued his education with purpose, earning a degree in Electrical Engineering from Clemson University and a graduate degree from Georgia Institute of Technology. A Vietnam Era veteran, Ken was always grateful for others who served in combat. Ken built a distinguished career at IBM, where he worked for 29 years. His colleagues knew him as someone who was not only brilliant at what he did but also, genuinely kind and generous with his time.

Outside of work, Ken had a deep love for baseball, a passion that brought him endless joy throughout his life whether he was watching a game, talking stats, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of America's pastime, especially with his dear friend Ed Tremblay. He also had a love of plants and nature and enjoyed his garden well known to many.

On July 23, 1994, Ken married Patricia "Trish" Payne, and together they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Those who knew Ken would tell you he was one of the gentlest, funniest, and most caring people they had ever met. His smile could light up a room, and his humor had a way of putting everyone at ease.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Trish Payne of Mebane, NC; sister, Janet Traynham Killen; sister-in-law Claire Traynham, nephews Lee Welsh, Kenneth Traynham, Jason Killen (Jennifer); niece Meredith Killen Lanier(Paul), Great Nephews Joseph and Mike Killen, James, Nathaniel, and Gideon Lanier, Sister-in-laws Bonnie McLain (Mike) and Barbara Shelton (Gordon) and their children Lori, Kara, Dianne, Wade, and Drew and their children. He is also survived by numerous family members including Crawford cousins Steve Thomas, Kathy Stone, Bonnie Germroth, Ronald Strawderman, Glen Strawderman.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Traynham, and brother-in-law David Killen, and late cousins Crawford Strawderman and Ricky Crawford.

He leaves numerous dear friends and other family members who meant so much to him and who supported and loved him.

The family asks that those who knew and loved Ken hold him close in their hearts and find comfort in these words:

Ease your grief, he is not gone,

For in our hearts he lingers on. His smile, his laugh, his loving way Will comfort you from day to day.

You'll feel his presence in the breeze That dances gently through the trees,

And in time, more than anything, You will find peace in remembering.

If you feel the need to do something to honor Ken's we ask that you plant a plant or make a donation to your favorite charity or the Ralston Arboretum.