Kenneth Musselwhite

Kenneth Wayne Musselwhite, age 77, of Garner, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on June 18, 2026. He was a loving father, a proud veteran, and a devoted friend who never met a stranger.

Ken honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1967 to 1988, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. Throughout his distinguished military career, he earned numerous decorations, including a two-time recipient of the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, the NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and six Good Conduct Medals. Following his military retirement, Ken continued his hard work on the road, working as a truck driver until his full retirement.

Ken was a vibrant part of his community, deeply loved by his neighbors and a wide circle of friends. He was happiest riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle with his close friends and riding groups, working on woodworking projects, and grilling outdoors. Generous to a fault, Ken was always the first to lend a helping hand to family and friends with their home projects.

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Astrid Musselwhite (Schüll), who passed away in 2012; his daughter, Diana Jost; his parents, James Musselwhite and Loneta Carmichael; his sister, Janette Thrower; and his brother-in-law, Hans Taubentaler.

He is survived and lovingly remembered by his daughter, Sharon Abrantes; his son, Jeffrey Ostrander (Brenda); and his cherished grandchildren: Anthony Abrantes, Rachel Ostrander, Jasmin Rudat (Max), Jordan Ostrander, and Christopher Miller-Jost (Jake).

He also leaves behind his son-in-law, Sascha Jost; his brother-in-law, Jesse Thrower; his sister-in-law, Inge Taubentaler; his brother-in-law, Rene Schüll (Bärbel); his half-siblings, Carolyn Parsons (Ray), Marilyn Skaggs (Terry), Cheryl Sharp (Clayton), Preston Stafford (Ann), Noel Stafford (Jane), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 3-5pm at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Rd. Garner, NC 27529