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Phyllis Kennedy Obituary
Phyllis Pridgeon Kennedy, 58, of Tallahassee was born to Fay and Tommy Pridgeon on April 9, 1957. She died at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital on July 10, 2015.
She is preceded in death by her father Tommy Pridgeon. She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Bobby Kennedy; daughter, Jessica Kennedy; mother, Fay Pridgeon; brothers, Tim Pridgeon (Merrie Jo Norman) and Michael Pridgeon (Suzie); nieces, Meredith Higgins (Matt), Alison Pridgeon, and Ashley Pridgeon; aunt, Nancy Shuford (Blair); cousins, Rick Shuford (Sharon), Kathy Graham (Robert) and Betsy Goram (Ernie); mother-in-law, Ruby Lee Kennedy; brothers-in-law, David Kennedy, Billy Kennedy (Sandie), Buddy Kennedy; sister-in-law, Becky Newsome (Paul), and a host of other loving family and friends.
Phyllis was born in Port St. Joe, Florida in 1957. She moved to Tallahassee in 1964. Phyllis graduated from Leon High School in 1975. As a teenager, Phyllis joined Killearn United Methodist Church, where her parents were charter members. Phyllis was employed at The Haystack, and then began her married life with Bobby, a musician, traveling with the band members and their families. When they settled in Tallahassee, she was a homemaker and mother to Jessica, and later went to work as a paralegal at the law firm of Hayward and Grant.
Phyllis had an indomitable spirit, and she faced her physical challenges these last few years with a wonderful, positive attitude. Phyllis lived life on her own terms, and she loved being with her family and her dogs, cooking, buying new clothes, working in her garden, and spending time at the beach. She will be missed by the many people who loved her and whom she loved.
The family would like to thank the staff at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for the excellent care Phyllis received time and time again, the staff of DaVita Dialysis Center and Dr. Hansen, and her dear friends who provided care and comfort during her illness.
There will be a memorial service on Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Killearn United Methodist Church. A visitation will be held from 1:00 - 1:45 p.m. at the church prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Leon County Humane Society, 413 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Phyllis Kennedy
Kathy Herrmann-Engelkamp
December 9, 2015
Oh my... I met Phyllis in June of 1975 in Tampa, we were roommates for a short time before she moved back to Tallahassee and I moved back to Cincinnati, OH. We lost touch with each other but I recently tried to make contact again and was so saddened to learn of her passing. Phyllis touch touched my heart and I will never forget her. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
July 29, 2015
Fay, I just found out about Phyllis dying and my prayers and love are with you and your family. Rest in peace sweet one. Ann Gabor
Colleen Groot
July 22, 2015
George Groot & I are both saddened by the loss of Phyllis. She was such a kind and gentle soul. I am so glad we got the chance to work together years ago. Phyllis loved her family. They were ALWAYS her top priority. My deepest condolences to Bobby, Jessica, Tim, Faye and all of her family. She will be missed. God Speed Phyllis.
Judy Webb
July 15, 2015
Bobby and Families - Everytime I see "Phyllis Kennedy Obituary", it takes my breath away.
Bobby - As we all gathered in the hospital those last two days waiting for Phyllis to find peace,, you said you just kept thinking of the song, "One More Day". I can think of another song title, "No Greater Love".
Never have I seen the kind of love, devotion, compassion and dedication the two of you shared. You cared for her and took care of her every single need, no matter how great or basic. And you did it with such love and gentleness it touched my heart or firmness when necessaey. You knew so much about her illnesses and medications, doctors and nurses often turned to you. And, there is no doubt she would have done the same for you had the situations been reversed.
Fay, never could she have had a better mother. Bobby often said how he didn't know how he would have done it without you. I'm in total awe of you. You, too, were with her every step of the way, spending most of the nights with her when not at home. Occasionally, we could get you and Bobby let one of us take a night shift to insure she was never alone.
And sweet, beautiful Jessica. She loved you so much and was so proud of the woman you have become. She looked forward to your regular phone calls, and oh those visits. Making lists and planning your favorite meals! Love you sweet girl.
And to the rest of the Pridgeons and Kennedys, you know how much family meant to her. She hated miss out on so much in past few years.
And to Laloni, Buddha, and Ruby, your Mama loved you so much!
This lady will be missed by all who knew her. Love and prayers for all.
July 15, 2015
We loved Phyllis and will be praying for the family. Ron and Vicki Burks, TMH
July 15, 2015
Condolences from The Falling Timbers Band. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Susan Oswalt Holden
July 14, 2015
Rest in peace, sweet Phyllis.
XO
Ron Dombrowski
July 14, 2015
My prayers are for Bobby and his family. A beautiful lady has risen to the angels.
July 14, 2015
I am so sad to hear of Phyllis's passing. I knew her and her family when she was a teenager. So many memories of Phyllis, Tim, Tommy and Faye! She was a special girl from a very special family. My heart aches for the Pridgeon and Kennedy families! Ron Sauls
Lisa Doxsee
July 14, 2015
Boy how I LOVED this woman!! She was so kind and sweet every time we spoke. I got to know her later in life, as we both had a common bond with Mexico Beach. I am relieved she is out of pain, discomfort and wondering what all was happening with the many hospital visits. She is in God's loving arms, and free of any discomfort, just happy, healthy and whole! Much HUGS, Love and strength for Bobby and Jessica, Mama, Tim and all the family! You are in our prayers! xo
Jim Deadman
July 14, 2015
My thoughts and prayers go out to Bobby and the family. I send you much strength in this time of need. God bless and protect Phyllis, Bobby, and all those wholove them. Peace be with you.
July 13, 2015
Bobby and family. I am so sorry for your loss! Pat McKinney Tucker (Sheila Peace's mother)
Sheila Peace
July 13, 2015
Bobby & Jessica,
There were many times already when I was afraid this time would come, but yet I'm unprepared now that it has. I loved Phyllis and I know she loved me, as she did MANY people. I love you guys, you know, and am grieving along with you and everyone else. She is no longer sick and in pain, but I know how much you will miss her. I doubt you will act on it, but I am always only a phone call away. I am praying for strength and grace for us all. Love, Sheila
Harvey and Beth Swisher
July 13, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of Phyllis's passing. Living next door to Fay
we have seen what a wonderfull family she and Tommy raised. They are all so kind and caring. Our love and prayers go out to all. God give you peace. Love Harvey and Beth Swisher
Betsy (Malsberger) Wood
July 13, 2015
Fay, Bobby, and Jessica: May God hold you in the palm of his hand during this sad time
Jan Raymond
July 13, 2015
I am so very saddened to hear of Phyllis' passing. What a sweet and wonderful person she was. I will miss her smiling face. Heaven has definitely gained another angel. Rest in Peace Phyllis. Jan
David and Rhonda Dalton
July 13, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kathy Ashton
July 13, 2015
Bobby and family, I just found out that Phyllis passed away. I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you, but I know it pales in comparison to how you feel. Phyllis will be missed by so many people, but I know most of all by you, Jessica and family. Allow the memories to help ease the pain and grief that you feel. May the support of God, your family, and many friends, help you through this difficult time. If you need anything, don't hesitate to let me know. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. R.I.P. Phyllis.
Bob and Dorinda Paynter
July 13, 2015
We are so sorry for your loss
July 13, 2015
Thinking of all of you with love and prayers. I am so glad I had the opportunity of knowing her through the years.
July 13, 2015
I loved her. She was so courageous always. I will never forget her. Patsy
July 13, 2015
RIP Sweet Lady!!
Rebecca Booth Roe
July 13, 2015
Sincere condolences and profound prayers for family healing at this time. Phyllis was a neighbor growing up, sweet person. Her loving and friendly spirit will not be forgotten. Bless you all.
Bill Alphin
July 13, 2015
Lynda and I send our prayers and best wishes for the family and friends. Peace
Leigh R. McAuley
July 13, 2015
Bobby and family - Keep Phyllis' memories close to your hearts and she will always be with you. With the memories, will come smiles and tears and those will keep her with you. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers today and in the days ahead. With love, Leigh Reams McAuley
July 12, 2015
Dear Fay and family,
Gilbert and I are so sorry about Phyllis. We would have loved to have met her. Having Fay for her mother we are sure she was a very special and beautiful person. Our hearts and prayers go out to you all at this difficult time.
Love and prayers,
Gilbert and Rhonda
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