John Ellis Kennedy, Sr., age 81, of Bryant, Arkansas, passed away on September 25, 2026.

John was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend. He was married to his beloved wife, Joann Kennedy, 63 years. Above all, John loved his family and treasured the life they built together.

John loved to hunt and fish, but above all, he loved his family. He was a loyal and devoted husband and father who took great pride in the people he loved. He shared his passion, integrity, and knowledge of life with his family, leaving them with lessons, stories, and memories that will continue to be passed down through the generations.

John was a co-owner of Letter Press Graphics and took pride in his work. He also proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, serving in Blytheville, Arkansas, for four years.

John will be remembered for his love of family, his loyalty, his wisdom, and the many ways he shared his knowledge and experience with those around him. His legacy will live on through the family he loved so deeply.

Preceded in Death

John was preceded in death by his son, Robert Wayne Kennedy; his siblings, Max Kennedy, Mary Applegate, and Faye Yant; his parents, George Ernest Kennedy and Esther Lois Bennett; and his brothers in law, Erby Yant, Clyde Donley, and Paul Bain.

Survived By

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joann Kennedy; his sons, John E. Kennedy, Jr. and Darrell Wayne Kennedy; his grandchildren, Dustin Scott Kennedy and Megan Brooke Jester (Derek); his great grandchildren, Drake Kennedy and Cade Jester; his siblings, Ferrell Kennedy, Lou Donley, and Judy Lake; and his brothers in law, Kenneth Bain (Patty) and Buddy Lake, along with numerous family and friends.

John’s life was one of family, dedication, and love. Though he is no longer with those he loved the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the legacy he leaves behind will continue through the generations.

He loved deeply, lived faithfully, and left behind a legacy that will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Pallbeares: Derek Jester, Dustin Kennedy, Drake Kennedy, Kevin Powell, Rick Carmichael and Ricky Yant.

Honorary Pallbeares: Farrell Kennedy and Kenneth Bain.

Funeral Services

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer`s Arkansas https://www.alzark.org