Cheryl Lynn Kennedy

KENNEDY, CHERYL LYNN, 77, passed away on August 21, 2025, at Harry Hynes Hospice in Wichita, Kansas. She was born on August 18, 1948, in Wichita, Kansas, to Claire Eugene and Mearle Arlene (Edwards) Maddox.

Cheryl graduated from Goddard High School and attended Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas. She later earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a minor in Physics from Pittsburg State University in 1970. While at Pittsburg State, she met the love of her life, Dean Kennedy, at Russ Hall. They were married on November 25, 1972, at Westwood Presbyterian Church in Wichita, and together they raised two daughters, Lynn Dalene and Kari Ann. Cheryl was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to all.

After college, Cheryl worked for RB Jones Insurance until the birth of her daughters, when she dedicated herself to caring for her family at home. In 1983, the family moved from Wichita to Hutchinson, Kansas, where Cheryl worked part-time for KSU Farm Management, continued raising her daughters, and made many lasting friendships. In 1989, the family relocated to Winfield, where Cheryl began working full-time at General Electric Jet Engine Services. There, her coworkers became a second family, and she faithfully served as payroll administrator for more than 700 employees until her retirement.

In 2012, Cheryl was diagnosed with breast cancer and bravely underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her determination was evident-she would complete treatment and return to work to ensure her employees were paid accurately. Cheryl was a fighter, and she instilled strength, resilience, and professionalism in her daughters.

Faith and service were central to Cheryl's life. She gave generously of her time to the Methodist church through Sunday School, funeral dinners, Evangelism Committees, Stephen Ministry, Agape, and many other roles of hospitality. She was a front-row cheerleader at every activity her daughters and grandchildren pursued-whether volleyball games, band concerts, dog shows, dance recitals, cross-country meets, or school events. Cheryl also volunteered as a Girl Scout Cookie Chairman, 4-H project leader, Co-Captain for the Winfield Playground Build, PEO member, Mother's Study Club member, Cowley County Leadership participant, and a cherished member of the Sunflower Friends. She often said, "Friends are the family you choose," and she lived that out wholeheartedly.

Cheryl loved to travel and always kept a suitcase ready. In her early years, she camped in the back of a pickup truck or pop-up trailer to family reunions across the country. Later, she traveled to Europe and the Northern Isles, exploring her genealogy, and she became the life of the party and center of fun on family cruises. Whether zip-lining, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach with her grandchildren, Cheryl embraced every adventure. Hawaii held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Dean of Andover; daughters Lynn (Jeff) Mork of Wichita, and Kari (Josh) Gordon of Andover; grandchildren Alex, Emily, Chris, and Mikenna Mork of Wichita, Jacob (Olivia) Gordon of Lawrence, and Kaitlyn Gordon of Andover; and a great-grandchild expected in early 2026. She is also survived by her sister, Pam (Bill) Byers of Wichita, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at Calvary United Methodist Church in Wichita on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Calvary United Methodist Church, Victory in the Valley (cancer support), or Pittsburg State University Foundation, benefiting the volleyball team. Heritage Funeral Home of Andover is handling arrangements. A private interment will be held at a later date.

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