Kenny "Waffle" Gaines was born to the union of Nathaniel and Shirley Gaines on October 1, 1958 , in St. Louis, Mo.  His father, Nathaniel Gaines, preceded him in death, as well as his wife, Deondra Gaines, and his brother, Timothy Gaines.

Kenny confessed is faith in Christ at an early age and remained a devout Christian leaning and depending on the word of our Lord Jesus Christ, he was a member of the Mt Sinai Missionary Baptist Church.

Kenny received his primary education within School District #189, he later enlisted into the United States Army, where he served for four years. Kenny also completed various college courses to further enhance his education.

Kenny later became a laborer with General Motors for several years and he was also an environmental services technician at the VA St. Louis Health Care System.

On Thursday, October 19th, 2023 , Kenny peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home.

He leaves to cherish his memories two loving daughters, Shameka Love-Doxey (George) of Virginia, Sheena Gaines of East St. Louis, IL, loving mother, Shirley Gaines, favorite brother, Mario Gaines, uncle, Norman Stevens, grandchildren, and a host of nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who loved him dearly.