Neal Kennedy

Neal Kennedy passed away Thursday, September 8, 2011 at The Carriage Club. She was born July 9, 1918 in Charlotte, NC.

Neal was the widow of the late Howell Randolph Kennedy, Sr., and the daughter of the late John Wilton Ray, Sr. and Johnsie Ella Austin Ray.

She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Ann Kennedy Gattis; son, Howell Randolph Kennedy, Jr. (Randy) and wife Tammy; granddaughters, Kalyn Neal and Taylor Zane Kennedy; grandson, Jonathan Alexander Gattis and wife Laurie Bersch; great-grandchildren, Sophie Alexandra Gattis and Baxter Kennedy Gattis; sister-in-law, Elizabeth (Betsy) Roberts Ray, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Esther Ivey Kennedy. In addition to her husband, Neal was predeceased by her brother, John Wilton Ray, Jr.

She was a graduate of Central High School, worked at City Savings and Loan, and retired from the Charlotte Mecklenburg School System.

Neal was a member of Craig Avenue Tabernacle ARP Church (formerly Tabernacle ARP Church located on Elizabeth Ave.). As a life-long member, she was active in her Sunday school class and as a member of Circle 3.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 10, 2011 at Sharon Memorial Park.

The family would like to thank her many friends and healthcare providers for their kind support. We especially thank the staff in The Coach House at The Carriage Club for their loving an attentive care. She was very grateful to all of you.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hospice & Palliative Care, 1420 E. Seventh St., Charlotte, NC 28204; Craig Ave. Tabernacle Church, 3936 Craig Ave., Charlotte, NC 28211; or to the charity of your choice.