Obituary of Nathaniel H Kennedy

Nathaniel Hawthorne Kennedy, Sr., a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, sibling, cousin, uncle and friend passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord on March 13, 2020. Nat was born the oldest child of Rev. Lofton and Mary Frances Shavers Kennedy at home September 24, 1930, in Redland Tyler, Texas. He was named after the famous author, Nathaniel Hawthorne, who his mother admired. Nathaniel graduated from Redland High School and Prairie View A&M University, after which he was a commissioned officer for armored infantry (US Army). He served his country during the Korean Conflict from 1952-1958. For the next 35 years he worked in the U.S. Postal Service, The Transportation Management Service Center where he was largely responsible for negotiating contracts with airlines and train companies’ for long hauling mail. After retiring he went on to join Galloway-Herron Realtors until his health began to fail. Nat was a member for more than fifty years to St. John Missionary Baptist Church where he served as trustee. Nat was predeceased by his parents; his brother, John Arthur; and sister, Jean. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Leleonia (Lee) Caldwell-Kennedy of forty years; his beloved children: Nathaniel II, Rodney and daughter, Tej (Preston); grandchildren: Dedrick, Campbell, Erica and Preston; and siblings: Willie Earl, Lee Vern, Loft (Winsome), Thomas (Betty), Zack (Katherine), Charles (Diane), Ruth (Ron), and Doris (Johnny). Nat lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures, spending time enjoying sports activities, golfing, spending time with family and friends. He will be remembered for his wisdom, honesty, integrity and his love for the Lord and his family.