Thomas Kennedy's Obituary
Tom Kennedy, Sr.
Thomas Livingstone Tom Kennedy, passed away on Friday, February 9, 2007 after living a full and meaningful life. A gentle, caring man with an abiding passion for literature, he loved nothing better than to read by his lakeside window.
He was born on February 20th, 1929 in Staten Island, New York and was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley L. Kennedy, Mary Gillis Kennedy; and the mother of his children, and a son David Kennedy. He is survived by his wife, Joyce Kennedy, sons, Charles Kennedy of Latham, NY, Thomas Kennedy II of Syracuse, NY, James Kennedy of Syracuse, NY, a daughter Mary Manahan of Newtown, PA, a sister Joan DiZefalo of Elizabeth, NJ, a special niece Ria Crawford of Purcellville, VA, and three grandchildren. Mr. Kennedy is also survived by two stepsons, Bobby Pittman of Spotsylvania, VA and Jonathan Pittman of Spotsylvania, VA., one stepdaughter Sheree Dickinson of Fredericksburg, VA and five step grandchildren.
In service to his country, Mr. Kennedy enlisted in the Marine Corps and fought during the Korean War. He was one of the very few survivors of the battle of the Chosin Reservoir, during which he suffered wounds and was awarded the Purple Heart.
After being discharged from the Marine Corps, Mr. Kennedy studied at the University of Syracuse and graduated in the class of 1957. Upon the completion of his studies, he embarked on a thirty-five year career with the Bayer Pharmaceutical Company.
An active and civic minded man, Mr. Kennedy served as a past Commander of the George Washington Chapter 1732 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. As a Commander he was instrumental in an effort to save a dying chestnut tree planted by George Washington located on Fauquier Street in Fredericksburg. Mr. Kennedy was also Past President of the Rappahannock Alliance for the Mentally Ill.
Inurnment will be at Quantico National Cemetery, Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at 12:00 noon with military honors. A Celebration of his Life will be held at the family residence for friends and family following the service.
The family request that memorial contributions be made in honor of Thomas L. Kennedy to the Friends of the Ladysmith Library, C/O Ladysmith Branch of the Caroline Library, P.O. Box 412, Ladysmith, VA 22501. This establishment was of great comfort to him during his illness.
Friends may sign his online guestbook at www.foundandsons.com.
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