Jerry Kennedy

Jerry Robert Kennedy originally of Bay City, Michigan passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026 in Lake Wales, Florida, age 84. Jerry was born on January 17, 1942 in Saginaw, MI to the late Russell and Caroline (Riley) Kennedy. He married the love of his life Helen T. Kennedy on September 19, 1965 at St. Mary’s Cathedral Church in Saginaw, MI. She preceded him in death on August 16, 2001.

After graduating from Saginaw High School, Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army, as Military Police. After his military service he found employment with General Motors Saginaw Division. He retired in 1994 after 32 years of dedicated service. Jerry spent most of his life in the Saginaw and Bay City area. He loved golfing, bowling, camping and was actively involved in Boy Scout leadership with his son’s troops, where they met many friends that became family. He was a longtime member of St. Hedwig Catholic Church and later Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Bay City before moving to Florida.

Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Debra Kennedy; his children: Brian (Melinda) Kennedy, Theresa (James) Krawczyk, Mark (Kristen) Kennedy and Karen Jankowski; his grandchildren: Jerrelle Reyes, TJ Krawczyk, Trevor Krawczyk, Vivian Kennedy, Jack Kennedy, Cole Jankowski and Lilli Jankowski; great grandchildren: Jian Omoy, Jane Omoy, Jerrelle Jr. and Jeremiah Reyes. Jerry’s sisters: Mary Frost and Sharon (Thomas) Johnson; in-laws: Donna Walderzak, Winifred Walkowiak, Nanette Haley and Vana Haley; along with many nieces (all his favorite), nephews, extended family and friends who will all miss him dearly.

Jerry is preceded in death by his first wife, Helen T. Kennedy and his twin brother, James Kennedy; brothers: William Kennedy, Thomas Kennedy, John R. Kennedy and Ronald Kennedy; sisters: Irene Kennedy, RuthAnn Kennedy, June Anklam, Joan Lalonde, Carol Fortier and Leora Kolka.

A service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Deisler Funeral Home, 2233 Hemmeter Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603. Rev. Fr. Robert Byrne will officiate. Family and friends are welcome to visit at the funeral home on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com