John Thomas "Tommy" Kendrick

John Thomas "Tommy" Kendrick entered the arms of his Savior on December 2, 2024, at the VA hospice unit in Asheville, NC, completing a life devoted to faith, family, and love.
A native of Rutherford County, Tommy was a son of the late Charles and Alice Kendrick of Henrietta, NC.
A faithful servant of his Lord and Savior, Tommy never met a stranger. His heart was open to all, and his deepest desire was for everyone to know the grace and love of his Jesus. Tommy was a man of gentleness and patience and was slow to anger. Whether through his words, actions, or unwavering kindness, he carried the light of Christ wherever he went, offering hope, compassion, prayer, and joy to those around him.
A proud Navy veteran, Tommy was the adoring husband of 42 years to Wanda, his beloved partner in life and faith. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and steadfast devotion. He was a proud and loving father to Angie Porter (Tripp), Matt, Jesse (Vanyssa), and Amanda Haynes (Roger), cherishing each moment spent with them. As "Opa", Tommy was simply the best grandfather, delighting in his grandchildren-Lily, Landon, Autumn, Maddie, Gunner, and Gatlin-who brought immeasurable joy to his life. Tommy is also a loving sibling to Jerry (Vicki), Ronnie (Phyllis), Tonda Sue Radford, and the late Frieda Proctor.
Tommy's life was a testament to the power of faith and the beauty of connection. His generosity of spirit, warm smile, and unshakable belief in the goodness of others leave a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. While he will be deeply missed, we rejoice in the knowledge that Tommy is now at peace in the presence of his Savior. His family and friends will carry forward his example, honoring his memory by loving as he did, with a full heart.
A celebration of Tommy's life will be held at the Graham Chapel of Christ Community Church, 396 Geneva Place, Montreat, NC, on Saturday, December 7 at 1 PM. We will gather to honor the incredible man he was and the extraordinary life he lived.
The family would like to extend special appreciation to Matthew Rees, MD (oncologist) and all the staff at the Charles George VA Medical Center and Hospice Center for the excellent and compassionate care extended to Tommy during this past year.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Christ Community Montreat Hurricane Helene relief at https://cccmontreat.org or PO Box 279, Montreat, NC 28757 (memo line Hurricane Helene Fund).
"His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.'" – Matthew 25:23