Gerald "Jerry" O'Neal Kennedy, 85, completed this earthly journey on Tuesday evening, April 29, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Graveside services will be Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at New Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery, New Zion.  The family will have a time of visitation Friday evening, May 2, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Layton-Anderson Funeral Home.

Mr. Kennedy was born in Kingstree, SC, the son of the late William Palmer Kennedy and the late Janie O'Neal Duke Kennedy. Jerry was a member of Central United Methodist Church. Before retiring, he was a co-owner of Pee Dee Medical Supply of Florence (his annual customer pig-pickings were epic). He had a "green thumb" and his beautifully-landscaped yards were the envy of many neighbors. He enjoyed watching the birds come and go in the Martin houses he put up in his backyard around the neighborhood pond. In the afternoons, he could be seen feeding the fish and ducks that swam in the pond. He loved animals of all kinds, especially the abandoned ones. Jerry loved searching for antique treasures and restoring them to their former glory (he was masterful). He was a kind and easy-going spirit. Getting to know him and earning a unique nickname from Jerry was akin to belonging to a gracious, loving family. He retained his engaging sense of humor throughout his life, no matter the circumstances. Over decades, Jerry was a positive role model on scores of children and young adults through coaching Dixie Youth Baseball and volunteering for church construction ministries. His favorite pastime was fishing while floating in a one-man boat down Lynches River.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Ruth Nell Green Kennedy; son, Gerald O'Neal "Neal" Kennedy, Jr, and his wife Renee'; daughter, Renae Kennedy Chadwick; grandchildren, Ryan (Catherine) Chadwick, O'Neal (Allison) Kennedy, Abbey K. (David) Driggers; and four great grand-daughters, Scout, Campbell, Arden and Amelia.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Christine K. Litton; brother, William T. "Billy" Kennedy; and beloved nephew, Tony Kennedy.

He is also survived by two loving nephews, Fred Holston, and Tommy Kennedy.

Jerry had a special affection for his many in-laws in the Green family of Moncks Corner, with whom he shared his famous "donkey call," much to the delight of everyone.

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to Agape Hospice Services for the most compassionate care we could have ever imagined for our beloved Jerry.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the charity of your choice.

You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.laytonandersonfh.com