James Kennedy, Sr.

Deacon James Kennedy, Sr. was born on February 5, 1934, in Fairfield County, to the late Wright Kennedy and Ella Burrell Kennedy. Deacon James Kennedy, Sr. went home to be with the Lord on Monday, November 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 91 years old. 

Educated in the Richland County School System, James was known for his unwavering faith, kind spirit, and infectious sense of humor. As a youth, he worked as a carpenter with his father and siblings in surrounding areas.

A proud veteran, Deacon Kennedy faithfully served his country in the United States Army. Upon receiving an honorable discharge and returning home, he married the love of his life, the former Alma Taylor, and their union of 61 years was blessed with five children. 

Deacon Kennedy retired from York Tape and Label Corporation, where he was honored with the Outstanding Service Award for his dedication, integrity, and perseverance. He worked as a maintenance technician and repair man over the years for various businesses. 

A devoted servant of God, Deacon Kennedy was a lifelong member of Temple Zion Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a deacon in 1973. Over the years, he served faithfully on the Deacon Board, Trustee Ministry, Jubilee Choir #2, and as Church Treasurer. His commitment to Christian service was recognized by the South Carolina House of Representatives, on motion of Representative John L. Scott, Jr., for his steadfast leadership and dedication to his church and community. 

Deacon Kennedy was a humble yet powerful example of faith in action—encouraging others through service, song, and steadfast love. He poured into the lives of youth and adults alike, leaving a legacy of faithfulness, compassion, and joy and sowing seeds of service. He shared his love of cooking and all who knew him, knew him to be a Bonafide Dallas Cowboys fan.

His hobbies included driving his pickup truck and carrying scrap metal, gardening, and tinkering with equipment. He loved landscaping and spending time with family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mrs. Alma T. Kennedy, his parents, and siblings. 

He leaves to cherish his memory, his five loving children, Mrs. Pamela (Jeffery L.) Brown, Sr. and Mr.  James Kennedy Jr.,  both of Columbia, SC;  Ms. Tasha Kennedy of National City, CA; Mrs. Kimberly (Reginald) Boyd, Sr. and Ms. Gwendolyn Kennedy of both Columbia, SC;  nine grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and a host of loving nieces, nephews,  other loving relatives, dear friends, and his Temple Zion Baptist Church family, all of whom will dearly miss him.

Deacon Kennedy’s life legacy is one of faith, family, community, and service—a true man of God who finished his race through God’s mercy and grace. 

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