Edmond Don Kennedy

Edmond Don Kennedy, better known to all as “Donkey Don”, 83, of Gladewater peacefully completed his earthly journey on November 24, 2023, in Tyler, Texas, surrounded by his beloved family. A Memorial Service for Donkey Don will be held Saturday, December 9, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore, Texas.

Don was born on October 25, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana to James Preston “JP” and Irene Anne Kennedy. He was raised in Kilgore, Texas. “Donkey Don’, was the proud owner of Don’s Auto Parts. He spent his free time drag racing, building cars, and cooking- especially Cajun food. He loved corvettes and all things green. Above all, Donkey Don loved his family. This family man’s sense of humor was a large part of his identity, and his family is forever grateful to have had these many years to enjoy his hilarity.

Donkey Don and his beloved wife Jessie Narvasa Kennedy celebrated thirty years of marriage on November 19th, 2023. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was fun-loving and always entertaining to be around. His family learned so much from Don, especially in the automotive realm. Don had a doctorate in life, as he liked to say. He was happy to share his knowledge and fun-loving nature with all.

When Don left this earth, he was reunited with his beloved parents, JP and Irene Kennedy, daughter- in- law Rhonda Kennedy and great- grandson Colby Watson. Left to cherish his memory are his wife Jessie, brothers; Dan (Lorraine) Kennedy and Duane Kennedy, children; Ron (Anne) Kennedy of McKinney, Rhonda (Angel) Lopez of Gladewater, JR Kennedy of Gladewater, Ireneanne (Nathan) Arias of Gladewater, grandchildren; Brandon (Jamie) Kennedy, Adam (Kennedy) Kennedy, Cody Kennedy, Wesley Moses and Dakota Moses, great- grandchildren Zander, Tegan, Greyson, Hunter, Kadence, Addison, Rylee, Annalise and Callie Mae along with many other loving family members and friends. He spent his lifetime loving his family and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Park Place, Mother Frances, and Hospice of East Texas.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Hospice of East Texas or Park Place.

Online condolences may be left at www.RaderFuneralHome.com