Paul Jennings Kennedy, Jr.

Paul Jennings Kennedy, Jr., a devoted husband of 48 yrs., father, grandfather, great grandfather, and respected safety engineer, passed away peacefully at his residence in Aiken, South Carolina, on May 13, 2026. Born on March 29, 1936, in Gastonia, North Carolina, Paul led a life marked by steadfast dedication, warmth, and an enduring commitment to his family, faith, and profession.

Paul grew up in Shelby, North Carolina, where he attended high school and went on to college at Wake Forest University and was in the ROTC program, laying the foundation for his distinguished military and professional career. He was a proud graduate of Wake Forest University where he participated on the track and cross country team and was an active member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity a connection he honored deeply throughout his life. His pride extended beyond his accomplishments to those of his children and grandchildren, some of which attended Wake Forest University as well as University North Carolina-Chapel Hill and University of Michigan Dental School and Charlotte Community College. As well as an aspiring pastry chef and restaurantuer, emphasizing the importance of education, commitment, and legacy in the Kennedy family.

Following college, Paul was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, serving honorably for eleven years until his discharge as a Major. His military career included service with the Army Airborne and a tour in Viet-nam which earned him the distinction of two Bronze Star medals, one of which was for valor, a testament to his courage and commitment.

Professionally, Paul dedicated his entire career to safety engineering within the construction industry, a field in which he worked across the United States. His expertise and leadership ensured the wellbeing of countless workers and projects over the years. He was known not only for his technical skill but also for his outgoing nature and genuine warmth. He was well known for lighting up any room he entered and was cherished as a nonjudgmental people person.

Paul's spiritual life was equally significant. A devoted Christian, he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher as a former member of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta during his two decades living in Atlanta, Georgia. After relocating to Aiken, South Carolina, ten years ago, he became an active member of Millbrook Baptist Church and the Houston Brown Sunday School Class. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, inspiring kindness, understanding, and a nonjudgmental spirit.

He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Jacquelyn "Jackie" Lee Kennedy, whose companionship and mutual devotion enriched his life immeasurably. Together, they nurtured a close-knit family: four children—Paul J. Kennedy, III (Shelly) of Winston Salem, NC; Michael Shaw Kennedy (Cindy) of Clemmons, NC; Julia Kennedy-White (Robbie White) of Huntersville, NC; and Angela Cooke (Michael) of Oak Ridge, TN. Paul and Jackie also consider Becky Westenberger as an “ adopted” daughter. Paul’s legacy lives on through his grandchildren Andrew Kennedy ( Ellie), Brooks Kennedy, Mitchell Kennedy (Shara), Sophie White, Laura Ashley Walker, and Charles Alex Walker, as well as his great-grandchildren Banks Kennedy and Caspyr Walker. He is also survived by his brother John Kennedy (Grace deceased) of Statesville, NC, and sister Jane Carter ( Joe deceased) of Tulsa, OK. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul J. Kennedy, Sr. and Isabel McGill Kennedy.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 11 o'clock. at Millbrook Chapel, located at 176 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken, SC 29803. The Rev. Bill Howard III will officiate. Inurnment will take place at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC at 3 o'clock.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Millbrook Baptist Church, 223 South Aiken Blvd., SE, Aiken, SC 29803 or to Wake Forest Athletic Department, P.O. Box 7227, Winston Salem, NC 27109.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC