Dr. Kenneth Norton Zegart - Tribute

With profound sadness, we mark the passing of one of Kentucky to the World’s founders and most ardent supporters, Dr. Kenneth Zegart.

To many, he was simply “Kenny”—a doctor, husband, father, grandfather, magician, mentor, and friend. But to Kentucky to the World (KTW), he was a cornerstone: the devoted partner to our founding CEO Shelly Zegart, a founding Board Member (2012–2019), and our steadfast Business Manager in later years. For more than a decade, Kenny helped activate and sustain Shelly’s vision of elevating the cultural and intellectual reputation of their beloved home state. Together, they built KTW into a nonprofit that shares the compelling stories of extraordinary Kentuckians through live events, digital content, school programs, television specials, and more—all with the goal of placing Kentucky on the global stage where it rightfully belongs.

Kenny’s roots as a Kentuckian ran deep. Born and raised in Louisville, he graduated from Atherton High School and spent his early years helping in his father’s pharmacy. A traumatic event there—when his father was wounded—left a lasting impression. Watching the Jewish Hospital medical team save his father’s life sparked a profound calling in Kenny. From that moment, he committed to becoming a doctor, ultimately earning both his B.S. and M.D. degrees from the University of Michigan, where he met Shelly. The two never parted after that.

After an externship at Oxford University, Kenny completed his internship and residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Philadelphia General Hospital before returning home to Louisville in 1968. He worked at the Neighborhood Health Center and later co-founded Louisville OB/GYN, where he built a respected multi-partner practice. Over his long and dedicated career, Kenny served as president of the Louisville OB/GYN Society, taught as a clinical professor at the University of Louisville, and advised on key healthcare and reproductive rights initiatives throughout Kentucky. He held leadership and advisory roles in organizations including the Kentucky Medical Association, the Greater Louisville Medical Society, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Physicians for a National Health Plan, and more. He also completed a certificate in Health Care Negotiation and Conflict Resolution from the Harvard School of Public Health—a testament to his lifelong commitment to both learning and advocacy.

Yet, those who knew Kenny know he was more than his professional achievements. He was deeply kind, curious, humble, and wise. As a physician, he was beloved not just for his skill but for his empathy—patients often spoke of his warmth and the quiet reassurance he brought into the room. As a partner and father, he was calm, grounding, and devoted. As a Kentuckian, he embodied the very values KTW was created to celebrate: generosity of spirit, intellectual rigor, cultural curiosity, and a deep, unwavering belief in the potential of our people and our place.

Kenny wasn’t one to seek the spotlight, but he was essential to those who did. Whether supporting Shelly in her trailblazing work, cheering on the efforts of his children and grandchildren, or listening intently to the stories of neighbors and strangers alike, Kenny made everyone feel seen and valued. His presence helped create the kind of community KTW seeks to build: one that honors stories, uplifts voices, and builds bridges across backgrounds and borders.

He was a magician to his grandchildren, a lifelong student of culture and science, a dedicated social justice advocate, and a gentle but fierce believer in progress. He often credited Shelly with pushing him out of his comfort zone, but the truth is, he had an adventurous and open spirit all his own—always eager to learn something new or meet someone unexpected.

Kenny Zegart lived a life that was profoundly generous, quietly powerful, and deeply meaningful. He showed us that a proud Kentuckian could change lives not only through bold acts but also through the grace of everyday kindness, consistency, and care.

We at Kentucky to the World are forever indebted to Kenny—for his vision, his stewardship, and the quiet strength with which he helped build something enduring. His legacy lives on in every story we tell.

We invite you to watch the video of Kenny Zegart’s oral history—available on this page—to hear his story in his own words and witness the wisdom, humor, and heart that made him unforgettable.

Visitation & Service for Dr. Kenneth N. Zegart

May 22, 2025

Location:
The Temple
5101 US Hwy 42
Louisville, KY 40241

Visitation from 12:30 PM

Service starts at 2 PM

The Service will also be streaming live on The Temple YouTube Channel

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dr. Kenneth N. Zegart’s memory to ACLU, The Temple,  or a charity of your choice.