Billy Ray Kennedy's Obituary
Billy Ray Kennedy, age 86, of Mt. Vernon, IL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at Charleston Rehab and Health Care Center in Charleston, IL.
He was born on February 26, 1939, in Mt. Vernon to Helen (Tolley) Kennedy and Percy Carl Morrison Kennedy. On February 18, 1989, he married the love of his life, Linda Schuit, in Robertson, TN. They shared 34 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on August 5, 2023.
Billy was a proud graduate of Mt. Vernon High School and spent much of his working life as a truck driver. He was also a member of the Mt. Vernon Gun and Sportsman Club, where he enjoyed time spent with friends who shared his passion for the outdoors.
A true outdoorsman at heart, Billy found great joy in fishing, hunting, riding and watching horses, and simply being outside. He was known for his quiet strength, gentle spirit, and deep appreciation for nature.
He is survived by his children, Deborah Powell of Charleston, IL; Anthony Pendleton of Tolono, IL; and Dawn Bieda of Union Grove, WI; along with nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind two siblings, Roy Kennedy of Sadorus, IL, and Donna Howerton of Mt. Vernon, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Linda; a son, Carl Kennedy; a grandson Brandon Kennedy; and a brother, Jerry Lee Kennedy.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Mt. Vernon Gun & Sportsman Club, 18687 N Miller Lake Ln, Mt Vernon, IL 62864. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Oakwood Cemetery in Mt. Vernon, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or online at https://www.michaeljfox.org
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