Kevin H. Hess
- November 30, 2025
Kevin Harold Hess, 71, passed away on November 24, 2025, from complications of renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) in Mount Holly, New Jersey. He was the oldest living person diagnosed with this disease. Born on September 25, 1954, in Trenton, New Jersey, Kevin lived a life marked by dedication to family, service to his country, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors and craftsmanship.
Kevin was educated in the Ewing Schools of Ewing, NJ and later attended Mercer County Community College. Kevin lived in CA with his brother Charles for a brief period of time and then moved to Houston, TX. After moving to Houston, Texas, Kevin worked as a lead inspector at Pipe Tracking Inspections Inc. He also spent time working at Auto Zone in Houston, bringing his mechanical skills and passion for automobiles into his daily work.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Kevin served from August 24, 1972, to May 20, 1974. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Marksman Badge—testaments to his commitment and discipline.
Kevin had a lifelong love for sports and the outdoors. Whether fishing or hiking, he found peace in nature. He enjoyed golf and bike riding and was an avid music lover with a special fondness for jazz. His hands were rarely idle—he loved fixing cars and later took up crafting walking sticks from branches he discovered during his outdoor adventures. A sharp dresser with an eye for detail, Kevin also collected watches and took pride in his appearance. In addition to making sure he spoke his mind, Kevin also made it a point to always find the humor in life. He was known for being particular about his food and had a discerning palate that reflected his thoughtful nature.
Beyond his hobbies and career, Kevin gave back to his community by coaching youth football—a role that allowed him to share both his knowledge of the game and his values of teamwork and perseverance.
Kevin is survived by his daughter, Roslyn Griffin (Grady Griffin Jr.) of Ewing, NJ; stepson, Damon Barone (Nicol Barone) of Houston, TX; brothers, Charles Miller (Sharon Miller) of Antioch, CA and Eugene Miller of Roselle, NJ; sisters, Bobbie Jean McNair of Long Beach, CA and Dr. Angela S. Gibson (Harvey J. Gibson) of Willingboro, NJ.
He leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren: Jovan R. Griffin, Grady C. Griffin III, Alexander R. Griffin, Kevin H. Griffin, Kameren L. Griffin, Daivon Barone, and Dominique Barone of Houston, TX. He is also remembered fondly by his favorite niece, Porsche S. Merricks as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whom will miss him dearly.
Kevin was predeceased by his wife, Antoinette Hess (Blue); sisters, Audrey Miller Schank, Patricia Brevard Livingston, and Sherry L. Hess; brother, Thomas Walker; father, Raymond W. Hess; and mother, Eleanor Miller Vaughan.
May Kevin’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life well-lived through service, family devotion, craftsmanship, and love for the natural world.