Warner Kennedy

We celebrate the life of Warner G. Kennedy, III, who passed away on February 11, 2026, in Long Beach, California. Born on March 7, 1953, in Washington D.C., Warner was the eldest of five siblings born to Warner G. Kennedy, Jr. and Lillian Beatrice Kennedy (Potter). His early years were spent in Washington D.C. and Denver, Colorado, before the family settled in Los Angeles when he was 12 years old.

Warner graduated from Fairfax High School in 1972 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting from California State University Los Angeles in 1976. Following his graduation, he began his professional career with positions at the *Los Angeles Sentinel* and the independent radio station KPFK.

In 1986, Warner welcomed his beloved daughter, Whitney Nicole Kennedy, into the world with Shirley Arterbury. Whitney became the light of his life, and Warner embraced fatherhood with devotion and pride. In 2001, he married Melanie Lynn Webb—a union he described as one of the happiest moments of his life.

Warner was also a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Lanaii McKay, born in 2008; Roman Noble, born in 2019; and twin boys Cairo and Camden Noble, born in 2020. He adored his grandchildren and spoke of them often with beaming joy.

Known for his love of family and friends, Warner was celebrated for his loyalty and easygoing nature. He had a unique ability to make others feel comfortable and accepted in his presence. Those who knew him cherished his warmth and sense of fun—qualities that made every gathering more vibrant. Whether raising a glass of champagne or sharing laughter at a festive occasion, Warner brought an infectious energy to every celebration.

Warner’s passion extended beyond his personal life into advocacy for human rights. He held strong political convictions and actively participated in causes close to his heart. He attended protests against injustices such as child detention at the border during Trump’s administration and stood firmly for women’s rights by participating in the Women’s Rights March of 2018 as well as demonstrations supporting Roe v. Wade.

Warner was preceded in death by his parents, Lillian Beatrice Kennedy (Potter) and Warner G. Kennedy, Jr. He is survived by his wife, Melanie Lynn Webb; his daughter, Whitney Nicole Kennedy; his cherished grandchildren: Lanaii Lillian McKay, Roman Noble, Cairo Noble, and Camden Noble; as well as his siblings: Patrick Joseph Kennedy, Adrienne Kathleen Kennedy, Aileen Karen Kennedy, Galen Krishna Kennedy; along with many loving extended family members.

A Viewing will be held on February 27, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Holy Cross Mortuary located at 5835 West Slauson Avenue. A Funeral Mass will follow on February 28, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Holy Cross Cemetery at the same address, and a repast will follow in the Dominguez Room of the Carson Community Center located at 801 East Carson Street in Carson, California.

Warner’s life was one filled with love for those around him and a steadfast commitment to justice. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him as they reflect on the joy he brought into their lives.