Constance M. Kennedy

Constance "Connie" M. (Ryan) Kennedy, 96, of Methuen (formerly of Lawrence), passed away at home on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Methuen on May 21, 1929, Connie was the daughter of the late Peter A. and Margaret Ivers-Ryan. She attended St. Augustine's grammar school and was a proud graduate of St. Mary's High School in Lawrence.
Connie's greatest accomplishment was raising her family! She provided a loving, nurturing and caring family life. One of her most cherished times was waiting for her children to come in from school. She would have a pot of tea (in true Irish fashion) and cookies, wanting to hear about their days. The holidays were always a special time with all her family gathered around.
During those years, she was very active in the PTO. Connie was a Girl Scout (Brownie) Troop leader. She enjoyed this experience so much that she stayed on long after her children had moved on. She advanced through the organization, becoming a consultant for new women joining the organization, sharing her wisdom and experience.
As a young woman, Connie started her career as a double-entry bookkeeper, working at Russem's (ladies' apparel), as well as other small businesses.
When it was time to re-enter the workforce Connie landed her "dream" job. She became the store manager for Russems' Ladies Apparel at the newly opened Methuen Mall. Connie had a wonderful sense of style and fashion. She loved sharing that with everyone!
For her final working years, she was office manager to Newman's Furniture in Haverhill.
Upon her retirement Connie returned to the classroom earning a travel and tourism certificate from Northern Essex Community College. Connie loved to travel! With her newly acquired certificate she became the "tour guide" organizing many of her trips for family and friends. She not only traveled throughout the United States, including Hawaii, but she also traveled through Europe and the Caribbean Islands.
When Connie finally had time for herself, she immediately joined the Methuen Senior Activity Center. It became her "home away from home". She could be seen there every day of the week, whether it was taking an exercise class, line dancing or participating in the many day trips. Connie made many new and lasting friendships during her time there. She always greeted everyone with a "smile and a hug"!
As an ambassador for Secure Horizons, she crisscrossed senior centers, dispensing advice, information, and smiles.
Connie was an avid reader. She believed that through books you could go anywhere and be anyone you wanted! She was a member of the Friends of the Nevins Library and the "Sociable Seniors" book club always ready with a spirited book review.
Faith and fellowship were the twin pillars of Connie's life. A communicant of Our Lady of Good Counsel-St. Augustine Chapel in Lawrence, she was also a member of their Rainbow Club, where she line danced and went on many wonderful trips. She also was a member of the St. Claire League, where she served as past president. She was very proud of her Irish heritage and carried the banner of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians with pride.
Connie leaves behind a legacy measured in love and laughter. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her five children, Sheila Kennedy, Paul Kennedy and his wife, Bev, Marion Kennedy, Nancy Kennedy, and Peg Nay and her husband, Larry; her seven grandchildren-Lisa, Paul, Michael, Ryan, Kathryn, Andrew, and Peter; eight great-grandchildren-Jane, Olivia, Bennett, Damon, Cameron, Robbie, Ally, and Lucas; and her dear niece, Brenda. She joins in heaven her parents and her brother, John Ryan.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Connie's extraordinary life with a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, at Our Lady of Good Counsel – St. Augustine Chapel, 128 Ames Street, Lawrence, MA. At the request of the family, there will be no calling hours. Guests are kindly asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial contributions be sent in Connie's memory to Methuen Senior Activity Center, 77 Lowell Street, Methuen MA 01844 or Friends of the Nevins Library, Nevins Memorial Library, 305 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. Online condolences may be shared at www.MethuenFH.com. The Methuen Family Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence Street, Methuen, is honored to serve the Kennedy family.