Known as Joe to those closest to him, he grew up in LaRue County, Kentucky, before relocating to Ohio. His background as a farmhand lent him his dexterity, diligence, and no-nonsense attitude, allowing him to become a well-respected jack-of-all-trades. His longest career was as a machinist for General Motors in Dayton, Ohio, aiding the company for over 30 years at the assembly line and paint house. In addition, he proudly served as a volunteer firefighter, EMT, and first aid instructor, protecting countless families.
He held the title of Kentucky Colonel and belonged to the Eastern Star Lodge in Franklin, Ohio before becoming a worthy patron at the Masonic Lodge (Prosser Chapter) in Middletown, Ohio. A man of unwavering faith, he was also a member of Trenton Church of Christ in Trenton, Ohio, and later Hickory Valley Christian Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
In his spare time, he was an excellent sportsman; he loved hunting, fishing, trapshooting, and playing board games. He often found sanctuary in his highly successful vegetable garden and his workshop, where he crafted slingshots, birdhouses, and numerous other keepsakes for his loved ones. But his legacy extends far beyond tomatoes and woodwork; he led by example in what it means to honor God, cherish family, and keep a good sense of humor.
His father and mother, Marion and Madell Kennedy, precede him in death. Left behind to honor his memory is his loving wife of 58 years, Betty Kennedy; daughter, Shelley L.Cupp (Brian); grandson, Gavin B. Cupp; and siblings, Mary Kennedy-Wilham, Donald Kennedy (Shirley), Judy Kennedy, and Robin Mudd.
You may make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society at: www.cancer.org and/or the American Heart Association at: www.heart.org
Please share your thoughts and memories at: www.ChattanoogaEastBrainerdChapel.com
Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 8214 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.
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