Jack Wood Kennedy, Jr. Jr.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jack Wood Kennedy Jr., 84, of Virginia Beach, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Jack was born on August 26, 1940, in Bainbridge, Georgia, to Zetta Pearl Kennedy and Jack Wood Kennedy Sr. He moved to Virginia Beach as a young child and made it his lifelong home.

Jack is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Judith Kennedy. Their love story began when Judy was just 16 years old, and their bond grew into a beautiful marriage that was celebrated with a diamond anniversary in June 2025. Jack's legacy continues through his two children, Connie Lynn Ramsay of Chesapeake, Virginia, and Clen Wood Kennedy, Sr. of Canton, Georgia. Sister-in-law, Cynthia Ginn of Virginia Beach (husband Richard), Half-Brother, Gary Kennedy of Kiitty Hawk, NC

He was a proud and loving "Papa Jack" to ten grandchildren: Amber, Kyle, Tiffani, and Brianne of Virginia; Kayla of New York. Kierstin, Clen,Jr, Miranda of Florida , Alissa of Georgia, and Taylor, who is now in Heaven. He also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren, who will carry his stories and spirit forward.

Jack was a man of the outdoors-an avid fisherman and hunter who found peace and joy in nature. He especially cherished his time in the Virginia mountains, calling the George Washington National Forest and Blue Ridge Mountains his second home. There, he was a proud member of a close-knit group of men known as the "Corn Cob Bunch" who gathered each year for cherished hunting trips.

You could find him in his Garden growing his famous tomatoes. He learned Farm life from his Uncle Bill at a young age to carry on traditions of growing your own vegetables and carried with him all his life. Canning peppers, beans and tomatoes was truly his favorite hobby.

Professionally, Jack wore many hats throughout his life. He served a short term in the United States Marine Corps in 1959, was a former charter boat captain who retired from Harrison's Fishing and Pier in Willoughby, Norfolk in 1976, and later became a respected business owner, founding Jack Kennedy Welding and Fabrication in Virginia Beach. He remained active in his trade until his retirement in 2020. His imprint and work can be found in things you use daily that he contributed hours and work too. From Chesapeake Bay Bridge tunnels. Oil tankers for the US where they are suppled all over the world to simple community projects such as the Kids Cove at Trashmore in VA Beach, his work and legacy lives on in the metal work around the world.

Jack will be remembered for his hard work, adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and above all, his deep love for his family. His memory will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jack's honor may be made to Hope for Life Rescue in VA Beach, a cause close to the family's heart - He is survived by his loving dog, Crystal rescued from there.

Celebration of Life will be held privately on his Birthday next month