Raleigh’s formative years were developed, along with his sibling Bill, in Wheeling West Virginia, with true family values. He completed his formal education in the Lincoln Elementary School, Warwood Grade School and Warwood High School in the Ohio County Public School System. He continued his education achieving a Bachelor of Administration from Bluefield State College, Bluefield West Virginia and furthered his education at Arizona State University, Tempe Arizona. After his completion of studies, Raleigh worked for the State of Arizona as a tax consultant before becoming an entrepreneur in tax consulting/financial planning. Raleigh owned and ran his own business for over 50 years.
Raleigh was an avid sports enthusiast. He played baseball in junior high, and played football, basketball, and ran track in high school. He lettered in all three sports and was a four-year starter in football at Bluefield State College. He remained committed to watching football games and debating the games with his brother, Bill. He was a Phoenix Suns fan and became very interested in the WNBA as women’s basketball became more popular throughout the years.
In 1999, a chance meeting with Crystal Gochoco changed the direction of his life in a profound way. He met the love of his life who became his wife in 2013. Raleigh took on the role as step-father to Crystal’s four children and papa to the grandchildren. He enjoyed spending quality time with the children; just hanging out.
Raleigh made his transition on September 18, 2024. Preceding Raleigh in death; Katherine Gladys Burris Kennedy and Raleigh Benwood Kennedy (parents), Aaron Kennedy (nephew). He leaves to cherish his memory; spouse, Crystal Kennedy; brother, William HC Kennedy (Patricia); four (4) stepchildren, Jameel Gaskins, Janee’ Garcia (Danny), Catherine McKown (Jake), Cristen Bissell (Matt): nine (9) grandchildren, Taylor (TC Raleigh’s nickname for her), Maya, Jadan, Violet, Amelie’, Churchill, Naomi, Devin and baby Jackson: three nephews, Bryant Kennedy (Mahogany), John Kennedy (Heidi), Terence Kennedy (Kyra); cousins, Constance Brown and Susan Gordon; five great nephews; seven great nieces; and a host of other cousins, family and friends.
Reflection:
A special husband is someone who can never be replaced. I will miss our conversations about the shenanigans of the grandkids and all of their sports activities that you enjoyed hearing so much about. I will miss you asking how TC is doing, being the first grandbaby you both had a very special relationship and I will miss sharing what she is up to now and sharing so many pictures of the grands that made you smile. Sleep well my husband and rest in peace. Love forever and a day, your wife Crystal.
Partager l'avis de décèsPARTAGER
v.1.12.1