Heaven gained a handsome Angel as Walter Lee Kennedy, age 82, a resident of Knoxville, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 1, 2024.

He was born in Lafollette April 4, 1942. At a younger age, Walter worked in logging and later worked for Roane Hosiery, Parkway Inc., and Browns Upholstery before becoming self-employed in upholstery. He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Rockford, TN.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Zelma Kennedy; mother, Ella Kennedy Rogers; Zelma’s parents, James and Frances Kennedy; brothers-in-law, Lowell, Leamon, Glenn, and Elmer Kennedy; son-in-law, Donald Ralph Henderson.

He is survived by children, Cheryl Kennedy Henderson of Knoxville and Bryan DeWayne Kennedy and wife Tammy of Harriman; grandchildren, Sarah Kennedy and Dylan Kennedy both of Harriman; great-granddaughter, Delilah Kennedy; brother, David Rogers; sisters, Mary Parks and husband Brad, and June Cooper; brother-in-law, Loura “George” Kennedy and wife Debbie; sister-in-law, Glenna Cornett and husband Ellis “Buzz”; family friend and caregiver, Mary Ann Collins who was like a daughter to Zelma and  Walter; also by a host of extended family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

A graveside service will be held at 10 am on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Oak Ridge Memorial Park with Rev. Jim Beasley officiating.

Premier Sharp Funeral Home is proud to be serving the Kennedy family.