IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Deacon Robert Edward

Deacon Robert Edward Kennedy Profile Photo

Kennedy

May 7, 1949 – August 29, 2024

Obituary

Robert E. Kennedy, affectionately known as "Bobby" and "Monster" to some, was born on May 7, 1949 in Darlington, SC to Martha and Sam Kennedy. Robert, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024 at the age of 75. Known for his friendly, outgoing nature, Robert had a unique ability to make everyone he met feel like a lifelong friend. His infectious smile and hearty laugh were just a few of the many ways he brightened the lives of those around him.


He attended Darlington county public schools and graduated from Mayo High School in 1968.


In his early years, Robert moved to New York where he worked at Tiffany's & Co. Robert later returned to South Carolina in the early 70's, where he was employed at Union Carbide later known  as ESAB Welding while still maintaining a part time job at Dominos delivering pizza for over 40 years. He retired from ESAB in the mid 2000's. Robert's hardworking nature continued to shine through various part-time jobs. The last job he held was with Bee Helpful as a bus driver. He also started his own lawn care business, building a loyal customer base through his exceptional work for many years before his health began to decline.


Robert found Christ in 1986. He was baptized on January 4, 1987 at Pentecostal United Church of Christ. He was ordained to a deacon in 1988. Robert was a  committed member of his church where he served as a dedicated usher, cherished choir member, and church bus/van driver. He also served as one of the Baptist for baptisms for many years. His dedication to his faith was evident in his life and work, often leading to the spiritual upliftment of his coworkers, some of whom joined and were saved through his witness. Robert's unwavering commitment to helping others was evident in everything he did; he truly was a server at heart. Robert was also known for his love of singing. It doesn't matter where he was, Robert would bust out singing with joy. He had a great love for motorcycles and would often gather with some of his church buddies to ride wherever the wind took them.


Robert's physical presence will be deeply missed. Robert leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and selflessness. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the cherished memories he created with all who knew him. His life was a testament to God's love, and his impact will be felt for years to come.


Robert met and married Sheila Kennedy on June 4,1982. They were married for twenty-nine years until her passing. After her passing, he met and married Classie Kennedy on April 4, 2013. They were married for eleven years.


Robert was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sheila Kennedy, three sisters Lois Kennedy, Barbara Jean Brown and Rosa Lee Dubose, two brothers Nathaniel Kennedy and Sam Kennedy, a number of aunts and uncles and mother-in-law Willie Mae Davis.


Those left behind to cherish his loving memories are his wife Classie Kennedy of Effingham, SC; children Javon (Brooke) Kennedy of Myrtle Beach, SC, Shakena Kennedy of Effingham, SC, niece reared as a daughter Keyona (Alvin) Ellis of Florence, SC; step-children Classie Graham, Ebony Graham, and Bryan Taylor; three grandchildren Cayden Kennedy, Shantell Kennedy and Sheimar Cooper; fourteen step-grandchildren Kavonte, Shamya, Angel, Islam, Isaiah, Eternity, Bryson, Kendyl, Kennedy, Jayden, Winter, Summer, Autumn and Storm; one aunt Annie Davis; father-in-law Clayborne Davis; sister-in-law Lorine Kennedy; brother-in-law Jeff Brown; host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Open Viewing

September
5

Draper G. Myers Mortuary, LLC- Florence Chapel

615 S Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506

1:00 - 5:00 pm

Celebration of Life

September
6

Pentecostal United Church of Christ, Apostolic

4430 Pamplico Highway, Florence, SC 29505

Starts at 11:00 am

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