Ira C Kennedy

Ira C. Kennedy, a beloved member of the Smithville community, passed away on June 16, 2025, at the NMMC in Tupelo. Born in Smithville, Mississippi, on November 29, 1937 to the late Fred and Edna Kennedy, Ira was a dedicated family man and a respected figure whose impact resonates deeply in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ira's career was marked by a commitment to service and education. Ira dedicated 35 years to the Army National Guard where he was full time for 20 years. He spent nineteen years and eleven months working at Western Auto and devoted himself to coaching youth sports, leading the Smithville Summer League baseball and softball teams for two decades. His contributions to the local high school were significant; he announced Smithville High School football games for thirty years, sharing his passion for the sport with students and fans alike. Ira also served two terms as a member of the Monroe County School Board at Large, advocating for the educational needs of the community. His vision for a thriving space for gathering and activities culminated in the building of the Smithville Community Center in 1970. This dedication to education and community service inspired many, and he retired from his career as Master Sargent on November 30, 1997 as a National Guard Recruiter.

Ira was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, where he participated in the Helping Hands Organization, embodying his values of charity and community support. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing joy and direction.

Education was essential to Ira, culminating in his high school graduation from Amory High School in 1957. However, his most cherished accomplishments were found not in awards or titles but in the successes of his children, whom he loved dearly.

A man of vibrant personality, Ira was known never to have met a stranger. He was honest, had integrity, and genuinely enjoyed connecting with people. His engaging nature brought many friends into his life, including his closest friends Jimmie and Janice Vaughn, Troy and Martha Jo Williams, and the buddies he cherished at the hardware store. His leisure time was filled with gardening, particularly his love for growing pumpkins and muscadines. He delighted in selling his harvests and sharing picnics while traveling and socializing with family and friends. Ira often expressed his excitement with favorite sayings such as "Golly Bim" and "Let me tell you something," leaving a trail of laughter in his wake.

Ira's legacy will be carried on by his loving family. He is survived by his second wife, Margaret Carson Kennedy of Iuka, MS. His children include Amy Kennedy Snow (John) of Smithville, MS; Gregg Kennedy (Susan) of Smithville, MS; Kevin Kennedy (Bobbie) of Enid, MS; Keith “Pete” Kennedy (Kitsi) of Belden, MS, Wesley Kennedy (Teka) of Union City, TN; Paul Kennedy (Misty) of Smithville, MS, and stepdaughters, Beth Byrd (Stevie) and Rebecca Wood (Paul). Ira was also blessed with numerous grandchildren: Ashtyn Kellan (Kevin), Marley Kate Snow, Lane Lann (Drew), Brock Kennedy, Mollie Rose Kennedy, Austin Kennedy, Dillon Kennedy (Brooke), Thomas Kennedy (Bonny), Kara Burks (Colby), Ben Kennedy (Layla), Chelsey Gazaway (Andrew), Hannah Kennedy, Brandi Bridges, Halle Lively (Blake), Tucker Kennedy (Whitney), Hayden Kennedy, along with 19 great-grandchildren, one on the way, 9 step-grandchildren, and 16 step-great-grandchildren.

Ira is mourned by his family and friends, including his sister-in-law Joy Jordan (Larry) and brothers-in-law Eddie Cantrell (Carol) and R.W. Cantrell (Jane). He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Kennedy and Edna Willie Kennedy; his first wife, Jimmie Frances Kennedy, who he married on February 9, 1958 and they spent 56 wonderful years together; brothers Rabbit, Clovis, James, and David Kennedy, and granddaughter Hannah Kennedy.

Visitation is scheduled for June 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Smithville Baptist Church, followed by a Celebration of Life on June 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at E.E. Pickle Funeral Home, Amory, MS. Burial to follow at Smithville Cemetery. Pallbearers will be his grandsons.

Ira C. Kennedy’s love, wisdom, and kindness will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to know him.

Donations and Memorials to Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude’s Children Hospital, or LeBonheur Children’s Hospital.

Memories and Condolences may be shared with his family at EEPickleFuneralHome.com.