Richard Philip Kennedy II

Richard was born in Syracuse, N.Y. to Mary Lou Jerome and Richard Philip Kennedy. He was a standout athlete in basketball and football at Fairview High School. He went on to play football at Westminster College and transferred to The University of Dayton, where he received his BS degree. At 6’ 6”, he was known as “Big Rich”. Upon graduation he furthered his education by earning his MBA from Boston College, while also serving in the U.S. Air Force. He spent his professional career as a technology consultant.

Richard’s great love was his family and friends. He kept up with friends dating back to his childhood as well as with newer friends and was known for his kindness and sense of humor. He met Robin on her first day of work at Lotus Development at the office in Boston and his persistence paid off. They were married after a two-year courtship and were blessed with two children. He adored his daughter Carlyle and son Richard.

Richard was active in their church, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Raleigh. He served as an usher but was best known as teacher of the 4-year old’s Sunday school class for many years. He was a “gentle giant” who could somehow fold his tall frame into a tiny chair and sing along to “Jesus Loves Me” and to other children’s favorites sung in All Angels’ Chapel.

Richard is survived his wife Robin Mabry Kennedy and his children Carlyle and Richard III. He is also survived by his mother, sisters Cyndi Rose, Kara Post Kennedy and Amy Kennedy as well as other beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Richard will be held at 2 o’clock at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Raleigh on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 1520 Canterbury Road, Raleigh, NC 27608.