Obituary of Julian Ken Shull

Julian Kenneth Shull, Jr. (Ken) age 76, passed away peacefully at home Monday evening, March 5, leaving this world for a much better one. He was certain of his welcome into a new life with God. He lived these last days one at a time, keeping them full of positive thoughts and happiness. Ken was born in Anniston, Alabama, to Kenneth and Ruth Cook Shull. He grew up there, graduating from Anniston High School in 1959. He studied at the University of Alabama for his B.S. degree in chemistry, then M.S. degree in biology. He earned his Ph.D. degree in genetics from Florida State University. For eleven years he taught at Loyola University in New Orleans, then at Appalachian State University in Boone in the Department of Biology until his retirement in 2007. His love for students always stimulated his love of teaching. First Baptist Church of Boone held a special place in Ken�s heart, a place of service and worship. He served in numerous leadership roles, as a deacon, a Sunday School teacher, moderator, and whenever or wherever he could be of service. He held memberships in Association of Southeastern Biologists, AAAS, Torch International, and Lily Society of America. Survivors include his wife of 50 years Carolyn Saxon Shull, son Kenneth Shull, III, daughter Gwyn Ridenhour and husband Jamieson, grandchildren Ian and Eva Ridenhour, cousin Keith Shull and his family. The extended family includes Carolyn�s sister Jeanette Chastain, her husband John, and their family. Visitation will be Thursday, March 8th from 5 to 7pm at the First Baptist Church Sanctuary. The service will be Friday, March 9th at 2pm, also in the Sanctuary of First Baptist Church. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall. Memorials may be made to the budget of First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone NC 28607 or in memory of Ken�s parents who suffered from Alzheimer�s to Alzheimer�s Research Initiatives at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, PO Box 571021, Winston-Salem, NC 27157. Online condolences may be shared with the Shull family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin and Barnes Funeral Home is serving the Shull family.