Rev. Dr. James “Jim” William Kennedy left his earthly home and ran into the arms of his Heavenly Father on Sunday, March 20, 2022. He died in his home after living 80 years filled with love and laughter. Despite many years of illness, Jim was born April 24, 1941 in St. Clair, Missouri to James and Reida Kennedy and was the oldest of three boys.
Jim was an extraordinary man who loved Jesus and his family deeply. Due to his warm, gentle spirit, he was loved by those who knew him and freely loved others as well. Jim wholeheartedly fulfilled the pastoral call to tend his flock, which extended far beyond the walls of any church. In addition to his Savior, family, and friends, one of Jim’s passions was working in his shop, taking on his ever-growing list of wood-working projects. Never one to be stagnant, Jim also enjoyed reading, writing, and travel as a way to quench his thirst for learning. It was easy to discern what was on his mind by the tune that he chose to whistle. His other joy was flying airplanes and sharing his love for flying with the other pilots in the family.
Commissioned to carry on his legacy of love are his wife, five children, and their families. He spent 24 wonderful years with the love of his life, Karen Kennedy. Jim will be forever missed by his children: Karen and Charlie Seifert, Dr. Susan and David Sanderson, Scott and Jessica Glass, Kristin and Jake Hearnsberger, and Megan and Ryan Brooks. Memories will be cherished by his grandchildren Chad and Brittany Seifert, Jennifer Hodzic, Colby Seifert, Allie and Taylor Parsons, Anna Sanderson, Jaycee Barron, Tyler Glass, Emilee Glass, Avery Hearnsberger, Kennedy Brooks, Caroline Brooks, Anderson Brooks, and John Hearnsberger, as well as one great-grandson, Hudson Seifert. He is survived by his brothers, Gerald (Stephanie) Kennedy and Jack (Lori) Kennedy.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 9, 2022 at the Bailey Funeral Home Chapel in Springhill, Louisiana with Dr. Charles Payne officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial to the W.H.O. of North Webster or a charity of your choice.