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Cortez Kennedy
1968 - 2017
Cortez Kennedy
1968 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1968
DIED
2017
Cortez Kennedy Obituary
His death May 23, 2017, was announced by the Orlando, Florida, Police Department. Orlando police confirmed to ESPN that they are investigating Kennedy's death, but they also said "there is nothing suspicious to report" at this time.
Kennedy played college football at the University of Miami. An All-American, he played on the Hurricanes’ 1989 national championship team. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks with the third overall pick in the 1990 NFL draft.
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Kennedy was a dominating defensive player who was a strong run stopper and could also get to the quarterback. He was selected to the All-Pro team eight times and was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 1992. Kennedy played his entire 11-year career with the Seahawks, retiring after the 2000 season.
Kennedy was voted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2012. During the last several years, he was an adviser for the New Orleans Saints.
"Cortez will be remembered not only for all his great achievements on the football field but how he handled himself off the field," Pro Football Hall of Fame CEO David Baker said in a statement. "He epitomized the many great values this game teaches which serves as inspiration to millions of fans."
Current NFL analyst Jimmy Johnson, who coached Kennedy at the University of Miami said on Twitter: "Shocked at Cortez Kennedy passing..1 of the most talented players I ever recruited or coached...a fun loving person a sad day."
85 Entries
#1 Fan/Good Friend T
December 6, 2019
A True Legend I got chance to hang out with you several time down in Dallas. Never thought much about who I was with at the time Because you Always told us you are just like us (Yall from the Country an Im from the Country) Your words Big T I just found out 30 minutes ago about your passing Im almost lost for words really R.I.H. Cortez there will never be NoooBody that can Do or Be the Brother that you where on or off the Field just felt that I would drop something on you in Word Big Dogg Rest up Now.I didnt just disappear neither Boy I had to take care of some Mistakes that I had made Before we meet Im Good with God now Bro see you up in Heaven Aye please let them Do some work up there LOL Your ### 1 fan an Friend Forever A.G.
Ty
September 1, 2017
Seahawks
Just think how wonderful it will be to live in Paradise! The whole earth will become like a park. (Isaiah 35:5, 6 and 65:21-24)
J H
July 22, 2017
June 22, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and peace in drawing closer to God in prayer during this difficult time.
How you can show support
joyce andrews
June 9, 2017
Rip
June 8, 2017
Sports figure,sportsman, man of character - much to be remembered. Sadly, we lose him but not the memories he made. Psalm 62:11,12.
Keashia Williams-Thomas
June 5, 2017
Cortez was a Gentle Giant and My family always enjoyed him when he visited us in Palatka, Florida. My heart is saddened that you are no longer physically present on earth. I can rejoice knowing that you will live forever with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Mattie Coleman
June 3, 2017
My Arkansas Brother rest in peace. Love to the family.
M C
June 3, 2017
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family for their loss. May you find comfort and help in God during this time of sorrow.
Daryl Jones
June 1, 2017
R.I.P. Curt.
We lost touch over the years. I'm so proud of what you accomplished you deserve everything that you earned in life you are a great man you will be missed
Chad Salter
June 1, 2017
Rest easy Cortez! It was a pleasure knowing you. It was always enjoyable hearing your stories when you were on our plane. Prayers to your family!
Tracy and Dreco Boyce
June 1, 2017
God bless you all.
angelo adams
June 1, 2017
You will always be in our hearts Tez! We are and always will be proud of you.
Dez Jones
June 1, 2017
Thank you! Your scholarship got me into college and your work ethic gave me the courage to strive for greatness! Your legacy will live on forever and continue to reach others!
June 1, 2017
Cortez "Kurt" Kennedy....Little Cuz, you will be greatly missed by all. Not only did you put our alma mater "Rivercrest High School" on the map, you made a lasting impression on our hometown that will be revered for generations to come. I'm so proud to call you my little cousin and I will miss you greatly.
-Carrie Jones-Boone Orlando, Florida
Wonda Webster
June 1, 2017
It was pleasure being adopted into your family. I appreciate your humbleness and always being real when I was in your presence. Please give Tanya a hug for me. Rest In Heaven Cortez.
Queen Gita L. Harris
June 1, 2017
Thinking of you all as you celebrate Cortez's remarkable life. Words alone cannot express the heartfelt pain we all are experiencing at the passing of "Kurt". It is my prayer that you find peace and comfort in the arms of Jesus. May God bless and comfort you all.
Silvia Nettles
June 1, 2017
Take your rest.
John Bruinsma
June 1, 2017
Cortez was always so kind to not only me and my two girls, but to everyone he came in contact with. He was my massage client for over 8 years, but he felt more like a friend. I am a better person for knowing Cortez. R.I.P. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends. John Bruinsma
Silvia Nettles
June 1, 2017
Ruby, I'm thinking of you and your family. Just remember that God is Good all the time.
Silvia Nettles
June 1, 2017
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take your rest.
Will Davis
June 1, 2017
I am so proud of how you represented yourself, your family and everyone who knew you. So often we forget what friends truly are and what memories we share. I always have and always will say we great pride I know Cortez, he is my friend.
Karen Brown
June 1, 2017
I love you cousin and so glad that I spent my childhood down south with you. I will always love you and will never forget you.
Your cousin "Bump" R.I.P
Leea deRuijsscher
June 1, 2017
Today is they day we say goodbye for now Tez . Your big sweet heart will never be forgotten. So,so many people are going to miss you - you're unforgettable . Once a Hawk ALWAYS a Hawk .Much love to your family and all of your friends .
Another Vol Fan
June 1, 2017
Cortez was a semi-regular attendee at the football-watching get-togethers at Roy "Tennstud" Adams' house in Memphis. He and Roy had been friends for decades, and when in Memphis , he would often visit those get-togethers. Roy the unabashed "Tennessee Vol" van, and Cortez, the University of Miami letterman, and dozens of others would watch a dozen or more wall-mounted TV screens to see all the games playing on Saturdays. Cortez, the multi-millionaire pro-football superstar and 40 or 50 regular working-class folks had a grand time hollering for their favorite teams. Often when he travelled, Cortez would call Tennstud's home, during the games, to talk with his buds.
He had residences in several places, and had a grand time of life, and a host of friends. He did not seem to care about pedigrees, status or pocket-books of those around him. He was a regular guy, with supernatural athletic skills.
He traveled with rich and famous and Joe/Jane Average...and treated them the same---with respect, politely, consistently.
Rest in peace, 'Tez.
Barthenia Toliver
June 1, 2017
I remember you as a little boy. Growing up together in Wilson, Arkansas. Upon your passing, a lot of memories came to my mind. Wow Curt...you accomplished a lot of good things here on earth. Sending warm thoughts and condolences to your daughter Courtney and mom, Rubystein. RIP!
May 31, 2017
When the military stationed us at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, 1983, we bought season tickets with the Seattle Seahawks . I didn't know much about football but my husband said we would enjoy it. Cortez became my favorite player and thru him introduced me to love football & the Seahawks. That Christmas, because of my love for Cortez, my husband bought me a Kennedy jersey. To this day it is the jersey I wear at every Seahawk game. RIP Cortez, thank you, you will be missed .
Diane Frederick (Gig Harbor, WA)
Kim Tracy-Schmitz
May 31, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to your family. I was a friend of Cortez back in his playing days. I know how much Courtney meant to him. She was his everything. Courtney, my heart goes out to you as, knowing your relationship with your dad then, I can only imagine the bond that you shared with him now. And to his mom who spent so much time visiting him in Seattle, I am so sorry. Your son has left a legacy far greater than that of an athlete. He treated people and his family well. He loved big! He was a great guy. I will hold on and cherish those personal memories that I got to have with him. He will be missed. Take Care!
Erika ...
May 31, 2017
Sad to see you go at such an early age! May you RIP, and watch over your family until you are all together again.
Ian Broomfield
May 31, 2017
I am glad to have met you and you once told me that don't be shy we're like family. I know Russell will miss you dearly. Sleep in peace Tez.
Martha (Jones) Barbee
May 30, 2017
You are in my thoughts & prayers. God Bless!
ASHOF - Terri Conder-Johnson
May 30, 2017
Sincere condolences from the the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame Board and Executive Director, Terri Conder-Johnson. I was inducted into the ASHOF in 2005 with Cortez. One of the nicest people I have ever met. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this very difficult time. God bless.
Gerri Lockhart
May 29, 2017
Hello to Joe Harris, He and family. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Cortez. He was such a great Football player, but Heaven and the Angel' s are smiling because one of their own is called home. Joe and I went to Grider' s School together during the 7th and 8th grade, Joe was a real intelligent student. I could see then, if he ever had children, that they would excelled to the greatest height. Joe and I and Howard McNeal all was very worthy and intellectual student. I feel the family pain. I knew the whole family of the Harris's, Joe, Sr., Clyde, Volley and all of the Harris family, very proud, hard working family. "Earth has no sorrow, that Heaven cannot heal". I am praying for comfort and strength for your family. Gerri Lockhart-Ford-Kuykendoll.
May 29, 2017
My sincere condolences to the Kennedy family. May your memories bring joy to your hearts and may our Heavenly Father comfort you and your family at this most difficult time. Psalms 145:18,19
May 29, 2017
So sorry for the loss of Cortez Kennedy. May the words of Psalms 18:1,2 be of comfort to the Kennedy family. God is my strength, my stronghold, my rock, the one who rescues me...
May 29, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. May you draw comfort from your cherished memories and from God at this difficult time.
Marlene Faulkner-Hussein
May 29, 2017
A Hero gone from this planet. Cortez's spirit rises to the heavenly plane. Rest, Inspire, Protect! Amen, Amen, Amen!
Darlene
May 28, 2017
My condolences to the family of
Mr.Cortez Kennedy.
May Jesus words at John 6:44 bring
comfort to the family at this difficult
time.
May 28, 2017
My sincere condolences are with the Kennedy family. May you find comfort within the kind words of others and the precious memories you shared with your loved one. May the God of all comfort continue to be with you as well.
May 27, 2017
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to Courtney and the rest of the family.
Stella Seals
May 27, 2017
Our prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends of Cortez Kennedy. Cherish the wonderful memories that you have. May God Almighty continue to be with you and your family and give you strength, courage but most of all peace in the difficult days ahead. 1 Corinthians 1: 3, 4
VH - IL
May 27, 2017
Such a sad story to hear about! I send my condolences to those affected by the sudden passing of Mr. Cortez. May the promise that the Almighty can be a refuge during times of distress be a source of comfort to you. Psalms 9:9
Tracy Boyce
May 26, 2017
May my GREAT GOD comfort you all on your loss. GOD IS GREAT AND GOOD ALL THE TIME.
Francine
May 26, 2017
My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends Cortez Kennedy . May the God of All Comfort be with you at this most difficult time . May he feel your heart with wonderful memories of Cortez to cherish.
C "Hawk"
May 26, 2017
RIP my brother Tez. May your family rest comfortably know that you are with our Heavenly Father. Gone to early for us but your Job was done according to the most high.
Doris Todd Johnson
May 26, 2017
You have your Wings now RIH. You will alway be miss your classmate from NWCC MS. Praying for the Kennedy family.
May 26, 2017
My condolences to the family. May you find peace in knowing our Heavenly Father is there to comfort you in this very difficult time.
Linda
May 26, 2017
Please accept my condolences for your loss. One can never be prepared for the empty void that's left when a loved one dies. Our Creator promises to give you the strength to live each day without. He says "I have heard your prayers, I have seen your tears" . I will heal you. 2 Kings 20:5. -
Foster
May 26, 2017
To the Family, my condolences, grief can be so hard , but our special memories helps us to cope with the pain. may the sorrow you feel in your heart lighten by the love that surrounds you.
Annie
May 25, 2017
Reading God's Word of hope for those who have passed on is faith building and encouraging. John 6:40.
AC
May 25, 2017
May God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this sad and difficult time. Psalms 119:50,76.
Sam Jankovich
May 25, 2017
What a horrible loss. When I was the AD at the U I had many opportunities to visi and observe Cortezon and off the field a tough loss for his family and most important of all us daughter may Cortez res in peace and his memory be eternal. God Bless
May 25, 2017
My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
A T
May 25, 2017
To a true and tried leader on and off the field, the brotherhood of the "U" has lost another great family member RIP Cortez.
Sherry Kivo
May 25, 2017
RIP Cortez Kennedy. You sure did a lot of exciting and good things while on this earth. Now you can do exciting and good things with your Savior Jesus Christ!
May 25, 2017
I thank everyone, for all your support. It has helped my son, Paul Kennedy, 1st cousin of Cortez Kennedy, of Olympia Wa, thru this time of sorrow. Lucretia Saglio Broy
May 25, 2017
My sincere simpathy to the family members of
Mr.Kennedy.
May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family this time of sorrow.
Rachel
May 25, 2017
Beloveds, as we remember Cortez Kennedy, may God be our refuge and strength during this most difficult time.
G. Freeman
May 25, 2017
It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.
Yvonne Lowery
May 25, 2017
May the peace of God be with the family of Mr Colez he will be missed by many a legend in his time. May the memories of Colez always be close to your heart.
May 25, 2017
To the family of I send my sincere condolences. During this difficult time I hope you draw comfort from the GOD of comfort. JAMES 4.8.
May 25, 2017
Thank you for all the memories playing in Seattle for the seahawks. Rest in Peace. God Bless your family in this tough time of sorrow.
Ivy Nelson-Groves
May 24, 2017
Bless you for all you gave to us, the 12s. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Harry Simpson
May 24, 2017
Godspeed, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Tara LoCastro
May 24, 2017
RIP Big Tez...I'll never forget our good times at "The U"! May you rest in peace, my friend...gone, but not forgotten. Nothing but love.....
May 24, 2017
We so sorry for your loss , our condolences to the Kennedy family and friends . Our prayers are with you . May the God who give peace be with all of you is this time of sorrow Romams 15:33
Tara LoCastro
May 24, 2017
RIP, my friend. I remember the good times at "The U"; your larger than life personality, wicked sense of humor and booming, infectious laugh. You never sought the spotlight, content to be a powerhouse "behind the scenes". Truly one of the greatest to ever play the game of Football. Rest easy, Big Tez..gone, but NEVER forgotten: Nothing but love...
Carolyn Murray
May 24, 2017
To The Kennedy Family,
May our Holy Father surround your family at this somber time of bereavement. Keep all of your special memories of Cortez within you hearts, spirits and souls these are the special places he will forever remain. RIP Cortez
May 24, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Annette
May 24, 2017
RIP Gentle Giant.
leila martinez
May 24, 2017
Prayers for your family and hawk family. to the Kennedy family thank you for sharing your husband, father and son with the city of Seattle. He was or is a true gentleman and professional. what a great loss for society. Again to the family thoughts and prayers for you and thank you for sharing him with the city of Seattly or the world of football.
leila
Arlene Beauprey
May 23, 2017
Rest in peace Cortez Kennedy 2017
May 23, 2017
Besides the love of his family and friends Mr Kennedy had many fans who admired him. May the God of all comfort be with them all. God love you.
Bubba Alston
May 23, 2017
A TRUE Hall of Famer !
Carolyn Gray
May 23, 2017
TEZ...you always told me come on home. Guess God had bigger plans for you in his big home. You will be sadly missed and you will surely be thought of on our shared birthday. Much love & respect with condolences to your family. Love Lynn (305).
May 23, 2017
May the God of all comfort be with the family and give you peace.
May 23, 2017
11 years in the NFL is no joke, this man out his sweat and tears on the field and it showed in his record. My condolences to the friends, families, and fans of this wonderful person.
Carlotta
May 23, 2017
May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Kennedy family and friends at this difficult time.
Garcia
May 23, 2017
Rest in Peace and God bless the family at this time.
Bobby Wilcox
May 23, 2017
A hall of fame quality player, yes, but much more than a hall of fame quality person. Life has just lost a giant of a human being! His loss will hurt and be felt for a good long time. A great example for any kid to follow in life. Our task now is to promote his ways and what he was all about as an honor to him. With a sad heart I send out prayers to all of his family and for his memory.
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