William Reid Kennerly

William Reid (Billy) Kennerly passed away peacefully and went to be with the Lord on July 27th, 2026, after several months of declining health. He was born in Cabarrus County on September 8th, 1948, to the late Clyde C. Kennerly and Myrl Reid Kennerly. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Janetta Zigler; Sons Daniel Kennerly (Ruth) and Jonathan Kennerly (Soli), four grandchildren and his sister, Alice Marshall (Tim). Billy was preceded in death by his brother, Richard C. Kennerly.

Billy graduated from South Rowan high school in 1966. He attended East Carolina University, graduating with a degree in business as well as a minor in music. He served in the US Army reserve and NC National guard bands for more than 30 years retiring as a Staff Sergeant. During his career he worked at R.H. Bouligny and Autozone.

Billy had a great love of music and could play many musical instruments but was known as an exceptional trumpet player. He was often asked to play solos on his trumpet at important events, but he truly enjoyed playing at family gatherings for those he loved.

He was member of Grace Covenant Church in Kannapolis NC and strong in his faith. He cherished the relationships he built there over many years.

Billy will be remembered as a kind and generous man who deeply loved his children and all his family and friends. He was always willing to help others and offer an encouraging word regardless of his own hardships.

A memorial service will be held at Grace Covenant Church in Kannapolis NC on Sunday August 2nd, 2026. Visitation will begin at 4pm.

Military Honors will be done at Salisbury National Cemetery on September 02, 2026 at 12:30pm.

Words of comfort and memories may be shared at www.linn-honeycutt.com.

Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home is honored to serve Mr. Kennerly's family.