Jerry Kennedy Sr., 86, of Springfield, IL, passed away peacefully at 7:10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, with his wife, Yvonne, and his dog, Ruby, by his side. He was just two weeks shy of his 87th birthday.

Jerry was born on October 22, 1939, in Springfield, IL, to Jim and Martha Kennedy. He served overseas in the U.S. Army and later owned and operated Ash Street Upholstery. He loved flying planes and helicopters and sharing a cold one with his friends. He will be remembered for his easygoing manner, his generosity, his great sense of humor, and his habit of giving everyone a nickname. Just ask Dino, Bopper, JWC, and Jill Pickle.

Jerry was the proud father of ten children. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; his children Jerry “Beaver” Kennedy Jr. (Valerie), Steve Kennedy (Renee), Teresa Villaran (Yuri), Marlene Banker-Barnet (Ralph), Tony Hopp (Doria), Rusty Kennedy (Laura), Tina Stowers (David), and Jennifer Hopp: his son-in-law, David Lumsden; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews; and his faithful companion, Ruby.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dianna Lumsden; his son, Nathan Banker, and daughter-in-law, Tonya Banker; his parents, Jim and Martha; and his siblings Dolly, Judy, Mike, and Marilyn. Jerry was the last of his siblings to go.

A funeral service with military honors will be held Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, IL.