Lester E. Kennedy, Sr.

On Friday, April 30, 2021, the Lord called the spirit of Lester “Little Joe” or “Joe” Kennedy Sr. to be with Him throughout eternity. Joe was the youngest of seven children born on January 23, 1957 in Columbia, South Carolina to the late Joseph and Carrie Kennedy.

Joe was a lifelong member of Little Zion Baptist Church. He graduated from Spring Valley High School.

He had four sons who were his pride and joy: Garrett, Jason, Joshua, and Lester Jr. (AKA Joey) Kennedy.

Joe enjoyed a career primarily in the concrete finishing field. He worked more than 20 years at Allied Signals.  During his time there he often served as a mentor to help guide his fellow co-workers to become experts in their field as he too was an expert. He was a man that came to the aid of many people. He might not initially know how to fix your problem, but before the sunset of the day he figured it out.

Joe was a man of courage, “A Warrior” as he would break barriers while going up against all odds and paved the way for those who would follow. He knew how important for us all to be strong and fearless.

Joe encouraged and empowered his children to be individuals that are self-sufficient.

The evidence is in the accomplishments that they have achieved in life. Joe was sooooo proud of his sons and they loved him so very much.

Joe’s great spirit, love for life and comedic ways, caught the attention of people, both young and old, who gravitated towards him. Up until his last day, he was continuously meeting new families and friends.  He was a great listener, a great brother a great friend, a great uncle, and a great DAD.  He always kept his company laughing at his sense of humor, his entertaining spirit, and his encouraging ways. Those traits were contagious and grew crowds wherever he went. He was notorious for walking past someone in the grocery store or Walmart and starting a general conversation as he passed. No one was ever offended.

There to welcome him into his heavenly home are his parents, Joseph and Carrie Kennedy as well as his brother, Jasper ‘Ray’ Kennedy.

In this transition of immortality, the treasured memories will live on thru his 4 sons: Garrett Kennedy of Las Vegas, Nevada, Jason (Lanesha) Kennedy, Joshua (Kashawnna) Kennedy, and Lester Jr (Ronda) Kennedy of Columbia, SC; 3 brothers: Nathaniel Kennedy; Nicodemus (Frances) Kennedy and Olin (Sherrin) Kennedy of Columbia, SC: 2 sisters: Viola Kennedy and Iris Ross of Columbia, SC. He was Granddad to 11 grandchildren, Emily, Ethan, India, Isaiah, Jason Jr., Joshua Jr., Melissa, Michael, Tyler, Weslie, and Zyian. He was loved so very much by a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends as well as his special friend, Beverly Able.

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