Patsy Carol Earp Kennedy

Patsy Carol Earp Kennedy, 82, of Wilmington, NC, passed away peacefully at her home on August 16, 2024. Born on October 13, 1941, in Durham, she was the beloved wife of George Kennedy for 62 years. Patsy is survived by her husband, three children—Teresa K. Sherrill (Tom), Fred Kennedy (Linda), and Ronnie Kennedy (Carol)—as well as her grandchildren: Thomas, Kelly (Travis), Rebecca, and Sara Sherrill, Lauren and Colbie Kennedy, Michelle Johnson (Jonnie), Wyatt (Ariel), and Amber Kennedy, her three great-granddaughters: Emersyn, Olivia, and Hannah, as well as cousins, and many nieces and nephews. She is also remembered by her sisters Peggy Woodcock and Faye Harrell. Patsy was preceded in death by her parents John J. Earp and Myrtle Louise Davis, and her sister Linda “Sue” Croom.

Patsy was the oldest of four girls, graduating from New Hanover High School in 1960. Prior to her graduation, Patsy met George at Silver Lake Baptist Church, where she was a member the majority of her life. The two married on Dec. 3, 1961.

Patsy was a behind-the-scenes person, never wanting the spotlight, being the “wind beneath all of our wings,” giving courage, strength, determination and most importantly, love, as needed.

Patsy's home was the spiritual center of her beloved family in Wilmington. That home was always open for neighborhood children. They could always count on her homemade treats, especially her delicious cakes, cupcakes, and Kool-Aid slushies. Her kids' classmates could count on “Lifesaver Dolls” and candy cane ribbons. She kept many kids in her home throughout the years for working parents.

At Silver Lake, Patsy volunteered in many areas such as Mission Friends, Vacation Bible School, and the nursery. She also supported her children in their church and school activities, and was their biggest cheerleader in their various sports they competed in. In her later years, Patsy enjoyed visits from her church friends and cherished the numerous letters and cards sent to her.

Patsy took care of her father and mother in their later years, often staying many nights in hospital rooms, sleeping on chairs to look after them; as well as her husband George’s parents Johnson and Ida Mae Kennedy in their final years.

Patsy will be remembered for her love of family. Whether as “Mom,” “Grandma,” or “Mema,” they could always count on a phone call on their birthday and various cards throughout the year. Her family will always have the memories of visiting Patsy's home on Christmas Eve and exchanging gifts. Her home was the focal point for many holidays and family gatherings throughout each year.

The Kennedy home would be a cherished and inviting place for her grandkids, who spent countless hours playing games, eating treats, climbing trees, having fun, sleeping over, making memories and being loved.

Patsy found joy in her last year-plus with her great-granddaughter Emersyn, holding her, singing to her, telling her Bible stories, playing “Pat-a-cake” and singing “Jesus Loves Me”.

Patsy loved watching game shows, Judge Judy, Golden Girls, Tar Heel basketball and tolerated watching westerns. She loved to go to Merritt’s to eat a cheeseburger, and enjoyed talking to her family on the phone. 

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Silver Lake Baptist Church with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. Graveside service will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Patsy’s grandchildren will honor her as pallbearers.

Flowers can be sent to Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel. Or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Silver Lake Baptist Church or to a charity/church of your choice.