Kenneth "Ken" Poole Colby Jr., 79, a resident of North Swanzey, passed away peacefully and quietly on Thursday, May 14, 2026, in the comfort of his home with the love of family by his side.

He was born a son to the late Bernece (Wilson) and Kenneth Poole Colby Sr. on December 2, 1946, in Keene. Ken graduated from Vermont Academy and graduated class of 1964. He continued his education at Keene State College earning his Bachelors of Science degree.

On January 18, 1969, Kenneth exchanged vows with the love of his life, Elizabeth "Liz" West. They had a simple ceremony at the Saint James Episcopal Church in Keene with the love of family and friends celebrating them.

Ken enjoyed his time working for Honda of Keene as one of their sales representatives for over 27 years until he retired. Prior, Ken worked for Liberty Mutual, Peerless, and Fairfields. Ken also was very well known within the community for his time as a selectman of Swanzey serving the town for over 40 years.

Kenneth was a dedicated member of his community and devoted much of his life to public service. In 1985, during his first campaign for Selectman, the election ended in a tie and was ultimately decided by a coin toss, which Ken won. The beginning of many years of service to the town he loved. He was a proud member of the Lions club, served on the board of the First Congregational Church of Swanzey, and was a member of the Monadnock School Board. Ken also served as a trustee for the Carpenter Home and was instrumental in establishing the The West Swanzey Athletic Association Park, leaving a lasting impact on the community for generations to come. Above all, Kenneth cherished time spent with his family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter, kindness, and love.

Mr. Colby is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth "Liz" Colby of North Swanzey, their two children, Kristen Goodenough and her husband, Peter of Swanzey, and Kenneth Poole Colby III of Derry, NH. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Grace, Hayden and his fiancée Gabriela Solorzano, and Matthew Sawyer Colby, along with cousins, extended family and friends. Ken was predeceased by his parents and in-laws, Phyllis and Robert Sawyer.

A one hour calling hour will be held from 6:00pm to 7:00pm on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. A private burial will take place in the family lot at Mount Caesar Cemetery in Swanzey. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes that all donations be made in Ken's name to either the Town of Swanzey Fire Department, 34 Main St. Swanzey, NH. 03446, or to, Home Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services, 312 Marlboro St. Keene, NH. 03431.

All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com.