Howard H. Kennedy Jr.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Howard Holden Kennedy, Jr., 83 of Tyler, Texas. He passed into Eternal Rest on November 16, 2025 in Lindale, Texas. Howard was born February 19, 1942 in Hawkins, Texas to the late Howard Holden and Doris Nadine (Acker) Kennedy.

Howard is survived by his wife, Kay, of 63 years and their children: Jan Renee (Tony) Foster, Jill Aimee (Robin) Wood, and Kara Jeanne (Tim) Beck as well as grandchildren: Caleb McLelland, Christopher (Peyton) Colston, Laura (Nathan) Gray, Mason (Karlie) Wood, Samuel Wood, Zane (Katie) Beck, Zachary Beck, and Alexandra Beck. He is also survived by great grandchildren: James Holden Gray, John Hayes Gray, Maggie Jeanne Gray, Jude Henry Gray, Kohen Wyatt Wood, Willard Bowen Wood, Emersyn Ruth Colston, and Raelynn Michelle Beck, as well as siblings: Wanda Mooney, Velma (Sherman) Noble, William (Charlotte) Kennedy and special cousins , Darrell (Reba) Poole.

He attended Hawkins High School and Tyler Junior College. After high school he enlisted in the U S Air Force serving from 1961-1965. On July 14, 1962, he married Mary Kay Richey at the home of the bride's parents in Hawkins.

Throughout Howard's life, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and being outdoors. He joined the Tyler Fire Department on November 17, 1969, and rose through the ranks, retiring January 2, 2005 as Captain after 35 years of service. During his service, he was awarded the Fireman of the Year in 1978, Certificate of Appreciation from State Representative Bob Glaze of the State of Texas House of Representatives for saving the life of a young child on May 8, 1993. After retirement, he was awarded the 2013 Legends Award by the Tyler Fire Department.

Graveside services will be provided by Caudle Rutledge Daugherty Funeral Home, Lindale, Texas. Burial will be at the Pine Forest Cemetery on Saturday, November 22 at 10:00 AM in Hopkins County, Texas.

Special remarks will be delivered by Jan Foster with closing prayer by Robin Wood.

Honorary pallbearers will be grandsons: Caleb McLelland, Christopher Colston, Mason Wood, Samuel Wood, Zane Beck, and Zachary Beck

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pine Forest Cemetery Association in care of Dianna McGregor, 608 County Road 3367, Pickton, Texas 75471 or to the charity of one's choice.