Born August 3, 1954 in Greenville, SC, Roger D. Kennedy, U.S. Navy veteran, business founder & CEO of Kennedy Kontrols, devoted husband & family man, and, faithful Christ follower, passed on July 8, 2024, in Wando, SC, with his wife, Kimberly Kennedy, at his side.

Introduced in 1997 by mutual friends, Roger & Kim, sharing a life of activity & adventure, but also of suffering, sacrifice & sorrow from the long-standing illnesses & eventual loss of her parents, as well as of his mother & his younger brother.

One of their greatest privileges & joys was helping to rear Kim's son, Trey. Losing his own father at only 9 years of age, Roger showed genuine concern for young people, especially Trey's friends, opening their home to them; and, frequently inviting them to family outings & events, creating so many fond memories filled with laughter & fun. Through his warmth, humility, dry wit & sincere interest in their well-being, Roger listened patiently & attentively to them &, when asked, offered them heartfelt & wise counsel.

They, as well as family & friends witnessed Roger's true & enduring courage, when in 2018, symptoms of severe fatigue led to a diagnosis of cancer. He continued to try to live every day to the fullest -- rejoicing in the times the cancer responded … & retaining hope even in the times the cancer progressed. He traveled with Kim as treatment would allow and spent meaningful, treasured time with family & friends.

Roger & the family extend gratitude to Dr. Anthony Firilas of Roper St. Francis Physician Partners, Dr. Gene B, Saylors & the extensive Charleston Oncology Team, the Roper Hospice, the prayer warriors at Wrenn Memorial Baptist Church, Robert and Sharon Smith, and, the many friends & extended family members who have shown their steadfast love & support along this difficult & challenging journey.

Predeceased by his father Harold Kennedy, his mother Louise Medlin Kirk, & his younger brother, he is survived by his wife, her son, Trey Pierce and several extended family members.

A service honoring Roger will be held at a future date in his hometown of Greenville at Wrenn Memorial Baptist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wrenn Memorial Baptist Church, 19 Sidney St., Greenville, SC 29609.