Annie Elizabeth

Kennedy

Annie Elizabeth Kennedy (Person) was born on April 12, 1940, in Charlottesville, Virginia, and was raised in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was born to James Brady Person and Annie Beatrice Person. She received her early education at Austin High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, and later continued her education at Fayetteville Technical Community College.

On October 27, 2026, Annie departed this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, strength, and unconditional love.

Annie married the late Sergeant Major (Retired) William George "Turk" Kennedy Jr. in Knoxville, Tennessee. Their marriage spanned more than five decades and was blessed with four children: Lovette Kennedy, Anthony Kennedy, William George "Fuzzy" Kennedy III, and Dr. Gail Elizabeth Kennedy.

Annie dedicated 27 years of service to the Cumberland County Tax Assessor's Office before retiring. A gifted entrepreneur with a passion for fine foods and entertaining, she began her catering career at Beaverbrook Country Club, later became co-owner of the Lobster House in Fayetteville, and continued her culinary pursuits through Cooking Connection. Her talents afforded her opportunities to cater events for governors, senators, and other distinguished guests throughout North Carolina.

A woman of faith, Annie was affiliated with Harvest Family Church in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Pursuit of Purpose Church in Atlanta, Georgia. She enjoyed reading, golfing, shopping, and cheering for her beloved University of Tennessee Vols, especially while watching games with her children and grandchildren. She also had a passion for gardening and landscaping, taking great pride in the beauty and care of her home.

Annie was a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, cherished sister, beloved aunt, and loyal friend. She maintained close relationships with family across the country, particularly in Tennessee, and was known for always showing up for those she loved. Her home and heart were a safe haven for generations of family members, offering comfort, encouragement, and, when needed, a little tough love.

A true "Boss Chick," Annie was strong, confident, independent, and unforgettable. She was spunky, outspoken, and never afraid to stand her ground. She had high expectations for those around her and wasn't shy about sharing her opinions, but her words always came from a place of love. She didn't just talk about strength; she lived it, demonstrated it, and passed it down to her family.

Annie was preceded in death by her parents, James Brady Person and Annie Beatrice Person; her sons, Charles Lovette Kennedy and William George "Fuzzy" Kennedy III; and her siblings, Joseph Person, Flenor Person, Eddie Person, and a host of beloved brothers and sisters from Emporia, VA.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Anthony Kennedy of Gastonia, North Carolina, and Dr. Gail Elizabeth Kennedy of Fayetteville, North Carolina; her siblings, James Person of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Florence B. Frederick of Accokeek, Maryland, Marion Sheck of Fairfax, Virginia, Lilly McGhee of Knoxville, Tennessee, and her brothers-in-law, Frank Carr of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Carl Fredrick (late) of Accokeek, Maryland.

She also leaves five beloved grandchildren: Lucretia Freeman, Kelsey DeShazior (Fumie), William Kennedy (fiancé Kimberly), Brandi Kennedy, and Travis DeShazior (Atilah); and eight treasured great-grandchildren: Montia Poole, Jordan Lyons-Kennedy, Biship Smith, Kennedi Smith, Victoria Smith, Abigail Kennedy, Londyn Brown, and Tahj DeShazior.

Her memory will also be cherished by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 11 am to 12 noon at Simon Temple AME Zion Church, 5760 Yadkin Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28303.  Funeral services will follow at 12 noon at the church.  Burial will follow at 2 pm at Sandhills State Veteran Cemetery on Ft. Bragg.  A Repast will follow the burial at Westover Recreation Center on Bonanza Dr.

Although she has taken her final bow, the memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the lives she touched will remain a treasured part of her remarkable legacy.