Bevis Lee Kennedy Jr.

Bevis Lee Kennedy Jr. succumbed in his battle with cancer on December 29, 2025. He was a loving husband and father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife Shellagh, his three children, Bonnie, Harold, Bevis III, seven grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

Bevis was born January 25, 1953 in Albany, Georgia into the military family of Bevis Lee Kennedy, Sr. and Sadie Irene Wise. As a military brat, along with 4 siblings, his early life carried him across the US. He grew up in a difficult family environment that forged in him in toughness, resilience, and the unmistakable Kennedy stubbornness that would define his life and echo through the generations of his family.

Bevis proudly served six years in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that he often stated “saved him” as he struggled for independence from his turbulent background. His time in the marines shaped his self discipline, work ethic, and underscored a lifelong appreciation for education. A deeply patriotic man, Bevis loved his country and believed firmly in the Constitution of United States, holding closely the ideals of freedom, service, and personal responsibility.

Applying the technical skills he obtained while in the marine corps, Bevis gained employment n California with Philips technology. As Philips disbanded Bevis was offered several options for transfer, one was as an electronic technician at Signetics Corporation in Orem, Utah. Having read, and fallen in love with Edward Abbey’s Desert Solitaire, Utah was his first choice. Once in Utah he developed a passion for backpacking, both the desert and the Wasatch mountains.

Soon after his transfer to Utah Bevis enrolled at the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor degree in Computer Science. Professionally, Bevis built a career rooted in service and technical expertise. After leaving Signetics, he began IT work for the Utah Highway Patrol, ultimately serving as a Database Administrator for the State of Utah. He retired in 2019.

In addition to his professional accomplishments Bevis believed his most important and rewarding efforts were spent at the Sharing Place, a childhood grief center. He began as a volunteer in 1997, and retired as a coordinator in 2015. For Bevis the Sharing Place, and the people working there have always been foremost within his heart..

After marrying Shellagh in 2004, Bevis embraced new passions, including horses, and the exploration of the West from the back of a horse. Although he had not had exposure to horses in his youth, he enthusiastically embraced the Natural Horsemanship community. Bevis and his horse Liam were recognized and honored for the bond they demonstrated. He was also a proud member of Back Country Horseman of Utah, who assist the Forest and Park service in clearing and maintaining our trails. He also developed skills in welding, a practical accomplishment while maintaining horses.

Faith was an evolving part of Bevis’s journey. He was raised Baptist, converted to Mormonism, and ultimately found his spiritual path within Buddhism. He was an active member with the Salt Lake Buddhist Fellowship, finding peace, purpose and loving friendship there.

Those who knew Bevis knew him as tough, fiercely independent, adventurous, and warm hearted with the most amazing hugs. In 2023, he was diagnosed with cancer, complex and metastatic. We are grateful for the excellent and compassionate care he received from his IHC oncology team and the remarkable infusion nurses. Even in illness, he faced life with grit, resolve, and dignity—just as he had lived it. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of life will take place Friday May 1, 2026 starting at 6:00 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S. Highland Drive, Millcreek, UT 84106.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to a charity in his honor.

The Sharing Place

Make A Gift | The Sharing Place - Salt Lake City - Utah Non-profit

1695 E. 3300 So. Salt Lake City, UT 84106

Back Country Horseman of Utah - Mountain Ridge

https://www.venmo.com/u/mountainridge-bch

BCHMR PO Box 81 Riverton, UT 84065

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