Kensworth Oliver Moody

KENSWORTH OLIVER LOCKSLEY MOODY
Kensworth Oliver Locksley Moody, USMC Gunnery Sergeant (Retired), beloved husband, compassionate father, and genuine friend went to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Ken brought joy to everyone he met with his infectious smile, positivity, kind heart, and undeniable love for music. Many people knew him as Jago, Flash, and Moody.
Kensworth was born on February 20, 1955, in Spanish Town, Jamaica, to Mary Jane Bennett (Flowers) and Anthony Moody. Ken grew up with his mother, stepfather and two younger sisters Dianne and Michelle. While growing up in Jamaica, Ken attended Ms. Bailey's Preschool. He took education seriously and was a hard-working student, performing well in all subjects. He graduated from St. Jago High School and successfully passed his O Level examinations. By age 19, Ken migrated to America by way of his mother along with his sisters and they settled in Chicago. He had an intense passion for soccer, track and field. Ken attended Rockford College on a soccer scholarship and from there he decided to join the United States Marine Corps in 1978.
As a proud member of the Marine Corps, he attended boot camp at Camp Pendleton, California. His primary specialties were supply administration and operations, accounting and becoming a logistician. During his military career that spanned 21 years, Ken attended various military training schools and served at several duty stations, some including St. Andrews Air Force Base, Quantico, Camp Lejeune, Twentynine Palms, Dam Neck Virginia Beach and Naval Air Station Jacksonville. He became a recruiter in 1996 and relocated to Jacksonville, Florida from Virginia Beach. He befriended many service member personnel, being a proud devil dog. Ken exemplified bravery and dedication, serving his country with honor. He truly embodied the
Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis, Latin for "Always Faithful." Decorations and Awards of Service include: Good Conduct Medal, Letter of Appreciation, Meritorious Mast Navy Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal Meritorious Unit Commendation, Secretary of the Navy Letter of Commendation, Coast Guard Special Operations Service Ribbon. In 1999, he retired from the military and post-retirement he went on to work at Medtronic Xomed and University of North Florida, and assisted his wife in developing Ardnas Health Care Services.
Beyond his military service, Ken was a passionate music connoisseur and a talented DJ. He had a unique ability to uplift spirits through his love for music. In the early 1980s, he opened a record store in Virginia Beach called Reggae Beat Records. He had a love for music like no other. Ken was a heavy influencer of bringing reggae music to Virginia Beach and became a promoter for different artists and bands. He even became the manager of Zion Wave band and created the opportunity for the band to open up at a concert for the reggae fusion band, Third World. Ken was a major force in the Jamaican community in Virginia Beach as well and loved all things Jamaican. He was proud of his culture and spread positivity, love and good vibrations everywhere he went. He often hosted various events including celebrations and social gatherings, networking and promoting for Reggae Sunsplash.
In 1992 Ken met his wife, Sandra, by way of a mutual friend in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Ken married Sandra on July 15, 1994. Ken was a devoted husband and father, cherishing his family above all else. He was the cornerstone of his family, instilling values of love, integrity, respect, compassion and perseverance. He was a guiding light for his children. Ken believed in the power of education and returned to school to attend Saint Leo University and received his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He continued to embrace his love for soccer and music, which he taught to his children. He nurtured a home filled with music, love, laughter and support and always encouraged his children to pursue their dreams. Ken was an unconditional loving husband and father whose warmth and affection knew no bounds. He prioritized his family's happiness and well being as well. He touched many lives, often ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. He had a strong unique ability to make others feel valued and understood.
The last several years Ken continued to be a fighter throughout his battle with kidney disease. He had a strong will to live and kept pushing every day despite medical diagnosis and battles. He was an inspiration to many, always had a smile on his face and never looked like what he was going through.
He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Jane L. Bennett (Flowers), stepfather Harrington Bennett, and grandson Kaden Jones.
Ken is survived by devoted and loving wife Sandra, children: Adrian Pinnock (Laura), Dr. Chantel Pinnock, Kadian Moody, and Kendra Moody; grandchildren: Danica, Dakota, Koryn, Levi, and Lydia; sisters: Dr. Dianne Bennett-Johnson, Michelle Jackson; nephews: Steven Johnson, Jonathan Jackson; niece: Phaedra Johnson, and mother-in-law, Clarice Edwards. Along with many extended nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends who were blessed by his presence. His legacy of service, love and friendship will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.
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