Ronald James Kennedy

Heaven gained a beautiful and caring soul on April 11, 2022, when Ron Kennedy, 77, returned home to God. He was a gifted tennis player and enjoyed fishing, playing poker, and the company of friends and family. His razor-sharp wit and wicked sense of humor made a lasting impression. Being part of a military family, Ron and his siblings lived in various parts of the US and abroad. He spent time in New Orleans, Louisiana; Falls Church, Virginia; Sendai, Japan; and Chateau de Luz in Coulmiers, France; before returning to live with his paternal grandparents to finish his final year of high school in New Orleans. He joined the Army in 1965 and was honorably discharged in 1967, earning a National Defense Services Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Sharpshooter Rifle Badge. Once he completed his education, Ron enjoyed a successful career in banking. His dedication to helping clients through difficult times was a testament to his belief that everyone deserves a second chance. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Marion Kennedy; son-in-law, Troy Talamantez; nephew, Nathan Kennedy; brother-in-law, Pat Moran; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife, Christine; daughter, Kristie Talamantez; granddaughters, Taylor and Tia Talamantez; and former wife, Sally Westphal (Rick). Ron was the eldest of eight children and will be watching over them always. Siblings and spouses include Karen Cantrell (Harry) of The Woodlands, Texas; Terry Kennedy (Molly) of New Orleans; Dennis Kennedy (Birdie) of Fairbanks, Alaska; Kathy Moran of Metairie; Al Kennedy (Denise) of Ponchatoula; Danny Kennedy (Mary Anne) of Metairie; and Mary Parsons (Bob) of Columbia, South Carolina. He was blessed with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and friends. Ron’s love of animals was expressed by adopting several shelter cats over the years. He was blessed to be able to see his furbabies again before he transitioned to Heaven. Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government Street, is responsible for the arrangements. Visitation at Rabenhorst will be on Tuesday, April 19, 2022, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or your favorite charity. Many thanks to the care provided by Pinnacle Hospice and Ron’s doctors, nurses, therapists, and cheerleaders throughout the years.