James E. Kennedy

KENNEDY James E. "Jim" Kennedy, age 80, Friday March 24, 2006. Born October 11, 1925 in Newark, OH, son of the late Maurice and Eva McDonald Kennedy and raised by his late grandmother Bridget Kennedy and aunts, Genevieve and Teresa Kennedy. Graduate of St. Francis of De Sales High School in Newark. Veteran WWII , US Navy surgical Corpman on the USS Bexar in the Pacific Theatre. Returned to receive his Bachelors of Science from Dennison University and his Masters in Zoology from the University of Cincinnati. A passionate liberal Democrat and lifelong Notre Dame fan. Worked with young children as an organizer, coach and trainer of various sports, starting Little League Baseball in the Newark area. Also served as a trainer Newark Catholic High School for the football and basketball teams. Worked with Owens-Corning Fiberglass Testing Division. An eighth grade teacher at St. Francis De Sales. He later taught at Ohio Dominican University formerly Ohio Dominican College for 26 years and retired in 1991 as associate Professor. Served as Chairman of the Biology Department and traveled Ohio lecturing on human sexuality. Editor and author of science textbooks and study guides. Jim was always proud of his family and all of his students over the years especially those who became teachers, doctors and nurses. An avid reader and lifelong learner. During his lifetime he was a member of St. Francis De Sales Parish in Newark, OH where he sang in the choir and St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Columbus where he served as lector. Also a member of the Bexley Activities Club where he enjoyed many activities including Malibu Racing and BAC trips and events. A poll worker for Franklin County Board of Elections. Survived by wife of 49 years, Elizabeth "Betty Jo" Kennedy; children, Bob (Christi) Kennedy, Betsy (Bob) Ireson; grandchildren, Jamie, Sam, and Chloe Kennedy, Zach and Libby Ireson; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, family and friends. Friends may call Tuesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the EGAN-RYAN FUNERAL HOME, 403 E. Broad St., in Columbus and Wednesday 10-11 a.m. at St. Francis De Sales Church, 66 Granville St., in Newark, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 a.m. Burial Maple Grove Cemetery Granville, OH. In lieu of flowers friends who wish may contribute in his memory to Ohio Dominican University.