Roger William Kennedy

Roger William Kennedy

Spartanburg, SC:  Roger William Kennedy died December 16, 2020, due to complications from COVID-19. He was 86. A native of New Jersey, Roger spent the majority of his life in the Garden State, before moving with Marcia, his wife of more than 50 years, to South Carolina. He grew up in Jersey City and the Paramus, the only child of William and Gertrude Kennedy. There he developed two passions that sustained him throughout his life: a love for sports and an affinity for the piano. A diehard Yankees fan, Roger would go on to attend Pace University, where he starred on the baseball team and made a little money on the side tickling the ivories in local bars. He graduated with an accounting degree, and soon after began working for the Grand Union supermarket chain. He retired 39 years later as Treasurer of the company. From there, he immediately transitioned into an equally impressive career in volunteerism. During the ‘70s and ‘80s, Roger was a fixture in Ridgewood youth sports, serving as a coach and league administrator. With his upbeat attitude and signature ‘50s-style crew cut, he left an indelible mark on young players all over town. Nothing brought Roger more pleasure than family and friends. Known lovingly by his grandchildren as “Pop-Pop,” he was a devoted father and husband who always put others first. He made everyone feel welcome in his home, and his impish smile and joyous laugh could turn any mundane gathering into a party. Roger is survived by Marcia; three children Dave, Mike and Missy; their spouses Barbara, Ali, Chris, and Ruth (prior marriage); eight grandchildren Andy, Bob, Ces, Kelly, Allie, Grace, Davis and Lily; plus two by marriage Mallory and Lex; and a great grandchild, Isaiah. To send regards, please contact Mike at mwkeno@yahoo.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger’s name can be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. (nami.org).

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.