Beaufort, September 12, 2025
News Summary
Kenneth Lynn Tootle, an esteemed attorney and beloved figure in Beaufort, has passed away at the age of 75. His legacy includes significant contributions to the legal field, a landmark case for women’s rights, and deep community involvement, coaching youth sports and engaging in local activities. Kenneth is survived by his wife, five children, and seven grandchildren. A celebration of his life will be held later this year, honoring a man whose dedication and storytelling left a profound impact on many.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Kenneth Lynn Tootle, a respected attorney and cherished member of the Beaufort community, passed away at the age of 75 at his home on August 25, 2025. Tootle’s contributions to the field of law, combined with his passionate engagement in family and community activities, created a lasting legacy that will not be forgotten.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Constance Kearns Tootle, along with five children: K. Lynn Tootle, Jr. (Vanessa) from Savannah, Caroline (Sean) Hayden from Charleston, Tennessee, C. Douglas Tootle, III from Charlotte, North Carolina, and Christian K. Tootle of Beaufort. Tootle was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Nick, Julia, and Maggie Tootle; Luke, Kellen, and Emery Hayden. He is also survived by his brother Charles D. Tootle, Jr. of Beaufort, sister Beth T. Coffield (Richard) of Bluffton, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Early Life and Education
Kenneth Tootle was born on April 9, 1950, in Quantico, Virginia, to the late Charles Douglas Tootle and Mavis Claire Tootle. He graduated from Beaufort High School in 1968 and went on to study at Spartanburg Methodist Junior College, followed by Georgia Southern College, where he earned his degree in 1972. He then achieved his law degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1974.
Legal Career
A distinguished lawyer with over 45 years of experience, Tootle was a dedicated member of the South Carolina Bar Association and the South Carolina Association of Trial Lawyers. He famously won a landmark case that was taken to the Supreme Court of South Carolina, which ultimately preserved the rights of women regarding adoption.
Community Involvement and Hobbies
Outside of his legal work, Tootle was deeply integrated into the fabric of his community. He coached youth baseball and football, dedicating time to develop the skills and character of young athletes. He was also known for his enthusiasm for the Lowcountry lifestyle, enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, and golfing. A founding member of the Good Ole Boys Crappie Fishin’ Expedition, he often spent time in john boats and duck blinds.
Kenneth’s storytelling ability brought joy to many, sharing tales from his youth, including lifeguarding at Hunting Island beach and memorable dances at Bailey’s. He was a devoted sports fan, passionately supporting the Gamecocks, Braves, and Redskins. He also participated in musical activities, playing the guitar and harmonica, while singing tenor in the St. Helena’s Anglican Church choir, further showcasing his love of music, particularly beach music and classic rock.
Recognitions and Final Days
In the closing days of his life, Tootle’s family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to his caretakers and hospice providers from Amedisys Hospice Care. A celebration of life is planned for October 2025, with details to be announced. The services will be handled by Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory in Beaufort.
Conclusion
Kenneth Lynn Tootle’s life was marked by his profound dedication to family, meaningful contributions to the legal profession, and active participation in his community. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kenneth Lynn Tootle |
| Age | 75 |
| Date of Passing | August 25, 2025 |
| Home | Beaufort, South Carolina |
| Career | Attorney |
| Notable Achievement | Landmark case in Supreme Court of South Carolina |
| Survivors | Wife, 5 children, 7 grandchildren |
| Memorial Service | Planned for October 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Kenneth Lynn Tootle
- Wikipedia: Law
- Your Island News: Theresa Marie Russell Raino
- Google Search: Beaufort South Carolina news
- Legacy: Alvin Wilder Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
