Obituary: Milton Carroll Kennedy
Milton Carroll Kennedy
January 6, 1943 – October 12, 2021
Seven Springs - Milton Carroll Kennedy, 78, closed his eyes to this earthly life and awakened in eternity with his Lord on Tuesday, October 12, 2021. Milton was born in Wayne County to the late Iredell and Dessie Howell Kennedy on January 6, 1943. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Larry Price; and siblings, Bob Kennedy and Gail Kennedy.
Working until retirement with DuPont, Milton served as a Pipefitter and welder for the company. As skilled as he was in these areas, his expertise went far beyond the tasks for which he was employed. He was known to be able to fix just about anything. From washing machines to windows, Milton believed in fixing things himself. A jack of all trades, he was often called on as a handyman, able to put up siding, put in windows, hang wallpaper, and do just about any carpentry work needed. As a lifelong learner, he’d search for products on Amazon or watch how-to videos on YouTube to accomplish the task at hand. If he didn’t know the answer and couldn’t find the answer, he’d sit down and take a little time to think. Sure enough, the answer would come right to him in time.
Upon retirement, Milton continued to work as a bus driver, working for La Grange Bus Company, Lenoir Community College, and Lenoir County Transit. Around the home, he took great pride in tending to his vegetable garden. When he remodeled his home, he took the task upon himself, doing everything but the brick work and sheet rock. No windows were available to meet his desires, so he even made those himself.
Milton’s life changed in the early 1960’s when he agreed to go on a blind date, where he met the love of his life, Dorothy Bizzell Kennedy. The two were married on November 28, 1963 and spent 57 wonderful years together. From good times to bad, in sickness and in health, Milton cared for and adored his bride. No matter the circumstances, it was evident that he loved every minute of his time with her.
Raising children was a highlight in the life of Dot and Milton. Milton was always a kind and gentle father, but he didn’t mind correcting his children. Words weren’t necessary; they knew that if he looked at them over his glasses, they had better straighten up. Words were few, but you knew to listen when he spoke. Once he got the point across, he’d begin laughing at you. His support to each of his children never wavered. From attending ballgames and dance recitals to coaching baseball, he remained actively involved in their lives. He was their best support and biggest fan.
Possessing a great sense of humor, Milton enjoyed seeing others laugh. You could often see him entering the church choir loft while sticking his tongue out at his family. He was always into a little bit of mischief, and his dry humor was a joy to all who knew him.
With a faith that could move mountains, Milton worshiped his Lord faithfully throughout his life. From growing up at Stoney Creek to worshiping later in life at Daly’s Chapel and White Oak Grove, Milton was always active in ministry. He made sure his children were in church every Sunday, and nothing took precedence over worship. At White Oak Grove, he served as a deacon, a member of the Laymen League, and sang in the church choir.
A service of love and remembrance will be held at Rouse Funeral Home on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Bob Smith officiating. Committal will follow at Daly’s Chapel Church Cemetery, Seven Springs.
Milton is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dorothy “Dot” Kennedy; children, Malcolm “Mike” Kennedy (Kelly), Debbie Anderson (Jeff), and Angela Kennedy-Wolfe (Kerry); grandchildren, Sarah Casey, Suzanne Janes, Braelyn Daniels (Travis), and Garris Wade; brothers, Ashley Kennedy and Haywood Kennedy (Mary); sister, Winnie Crosby; sister-in-law, Lela Kennedy; family friend, Donna Herring; beloved dogs, Coby and Sweetpea; and a granddog, Lola.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 15, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be given in Milton’s memory to White Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Janet Brown, 1794 Jenny Lind Road, La Grange, NC 28551. Arrangements entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
