James A. Kennedy

Passed away March 7, 2026 at the age of 92. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, to James and Marion Kennedy, the fifth of 8 children (6 sisters and 1 brother). He lived a life of devotion to his family, faith, and friends. His smile and gentle kindness was a blessing to all who knew him. He had a knack for making everyone around him feel like family.

He was an incredible and dedicated husband to Lil Kennedy and a hardworking, selfless, and loving father to Jim (Laura), Lila (Jimmy) Ziegler and Patti (Jim) Hingerton. “Grandpa” Jim had a special relationship with each of his 7 grandchildren, 5 girls and 2 boys (Catie, Meg, Catherine, Krista, Kelli, Bryan and Jake).  He knew how to make each grandkid feel uniquely seen, heard, and loved. He was also blessed to spend time with 4 great-grandchildren: Erin, Phoenix, Michael and Mia.

He served in the US army for 2 years after graduating from St. John’s University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and then received his Masters at NYU. He had a very successful career as the Controller at Hazeltine, working for the company for nearly 4 decades.

As a father he created lasting memories with his family traveling in the station wagon across the country, visiting 48 states and seeing countless National Parks and historical landmarks. He served on the school board for many years at his children’s school, St. Pius, and on the Advisory Board at their high school, Holy Family.

He was a dedicated parishioner of St. Elizabeth’s Church in South Huntington for 50 years. He served as a meaningful member of the bereavement group. His unwavering dedication to his faith was evident to all who knew him. He truly lived as a disciple of the Lord and greatly influenced his family’s faith lives as well. He also frequently attended mass at St. Hughs in Huntington Station, creating lasting friendships that turned into breakfast club after daily mass.

As a Grandpa to 7 busy kids, he somehow never failed to attend each sporting event, concert, dance recital, award ceremony and school assembly. You could always find him and Grandma Lil in their matching sweaters, cheering you on from the sidelines. He always ensured his grandchildren had a hearty breakfast - whether home or away.  You could always count on being greeted in the mornings by his warm hugs, cheery presence and the smell of freshly made pancakes or cinnamon raisin toast.

In addition to always being present for his family, Jim had quite the social life. He had more friends than most - frequently went out to dinner with them and even brought many on trips to Woodloch. His busy schedule and constant plans with friends was a testament to the way he made every person he knew feel special.

Grandpa’s pool was a special place where family gathered each summer, bringing friends in that became family too. Time and time again, he allowed his children/grandchildren to host birthdays, graduations, showers, engagement parties, and more. His home became a venue for celebrating life’s milestones. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: St. Elizabeth's or St. Hugh’s Outreach or Michael J. Fox Foundation.