Estelle "Libby" Kennedy

After 99 years of light, love and great kindness toward others, Estelle F. Kennedy passed from this world into her heavenly home on July 22, 2024. Known as “Libby” to her family and friends, she was born in June of 1925 in Somerville, New Jersey, and raised amidst a warm Italian family that included grand-parents, many aunts and uncles, and a wonderful cast of cousins. In high school, she dreamed of becoming a singer, and began commuting to the Radio City Music Hall to attend singing lessons. At 18 years old, she was invited to join the Fred Waring Chorale in New York City, launching her as a professional musician.

Libby flourished on stage, and loved performing with many extraordinary musicians. One of them was a pianist, fresh from Rutgers University, who accompanied her at a recital. John Eldridge dazzled her with his talent, but also his sensitivity and intelligence. The two were married, and became the musical duo “Estelle and Johnny”. For 6 years they performed in the finest resorts and supper clubs in Atlantic City, the Poconos, and New York City, merrily traveling up and down the east coast. During this time, their first child Jeffrey was born. When their second child Martin was due, they moved “out west” to raise their young family in the San Diego sunshine. A long-hoped-for daughter, Therese, soon came along too.

Life in California was full of opportunities, but daunting challenges arose. Libby met them with her whole heart. Her marriage to John dissolved, but was transformed into a cherished lifelong friendship. And as a single mother, she found resilience through her deep faith in Christ. Hard work led her to discover many new talents. She became a successful business woman, while remaining a devoted mother and musician. During this period in the 1960s, she formed her first 6 piece band, “Libby and the Music Men”, which performed in all the best venues in San Diego. She also worked as an advertising sales rep for the Sentinel Newspaper, and her sparkling wit won her a position as a staff writer. Her weekly column was called “People and Places”, which told of the social goings-on about town and the San Diego entertainment scene.

In 1969, Libby met and married her second husband, Naval Officer Leonard “Skip” Caton, whom she adored. Months after their honeymoon in Acapulco, the 45 year old Skip passed away from a major heart attack. It was a devastating event. Once again, Libby buoyed herself, as was her unsinkable style, and carried on with her children. She obtained her California Realtor License, and was an attentive representative to many grateful clients during those incredible Real Estate years of the 1970s and 1980s.

In 1990, Libby met the retired naval Captain, William P. Kennedy. This was an autumn romance for both Libby and Bill, and one that blossomed into a blissful 26 year-long marriage that shimmered with vitality. With Libby’s three grown children, and Bill’s six, the large fun-filled family that she had always dreamed of came into being, along with exciting world travels, boating, cruise ships, celebrations with good friends, and many grand-children. It was a partnership anchored in faith, and the joy that accompanies great love.

Throughout her 99 years, Libby was an extraordinarily caring person, and is survived by her three children and their spouses, Jeff (and Sarela), Marty (and Suzy), Terry (and Barney). She is a Grandmother to John Martin, Jeffrey David (J.D.), Jenna, Jordan, Kristen, and John Bernard. She is a Great Grandmother to Jaden, Abby and Daniel. Also part of her large family are seven step children – Buddy, Dee, Nancy, Kathy, Don, Rick and David.

Her glittering presence will be missed, but her compassion and love will continue to shine.

A visitation for Estelle will be held Friday, August 2, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121. A funeral service will occur Saturday, August 3, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121. A graveside service will occur Saturday, August 3, 2024 from 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM, 5600 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92121.