Chesapeake – Jesse C. Kennedy, 86, went home to meet his savior, Jesus Christ, on August 1, 2013, in Chesapeake Regional Medical Center. Deacon Kennedy was born March 28, 1926 in Mississippi to the late Everett Kennedy and Florence Herbert. He was a resident of Blackwater in Virginia Beach for many years until he made Chesapeake his home.

Deacon Kennedy served our country in the US Navy during World War I and retired after 35 years of dedicated service. He was a biscuit maker for a family owned store until he became ill. He was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, a member of the Male Usher Board, and as the Superintendent of the church Sunday school. He also was a Superintendent of the Progressive Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Sunday School Union.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Bembry-Kennedy; two stepdaughters, two stepsons, six grandchildren, his spiritual daughter, Rev. Linda Bond and spiritual son, Apostle Joseph Cook, and a host of relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held noon Saturday at Bethel Baptist Church. Viewing will be held from 3-6pm Friday at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, Chesapeake. Condolences can be offered to the family at www.pretlowandsons.com.