Dr. Hilda Gray Bullard Kennedy, 94, of Sanford, formerly of Fayetteville, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

Hilda was born on November 3, 1931, in Fayetteville to Timothy G. and Irene V. Bullard. She grew up in Fayetteville but spent most of her adult life in Sanford. She received her Bachelor's degree from Women's College in Greensboro and her Master's and her Doctor of Education (Ed.D) from NC State University. She achieved all of these accomplishments while working full-time as head of the College Transfer Program at Central Carolina Community College in Sanford and raising 3 children. Upon completing her degrees, she also began a therapy practice in Sanford and received much joy being able to help others that needed support.

She was a long-time member of First Baptist Church in Sanford, where she served as a deacon. She and her husband Bill enjoyed singing in the Hymns and Hers Senior Choir and she was an active member of her Sunday School class for many years. She was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, and Nana. She especially loved her two grandchildren and never missed any event they participated in. She will also be remembered for her lifelong passion for learning and professional growth, as well as for the encouragement, wisdom, and steadfast support she shared with friends, students, co-workers, and all who knew her.

She is predeceased by her husband, William "Bill" R. Kennedy, Jr.

She is survived by her children, Randle Kennedy, Tim Kennedy, and Jennibeth Kennedy Brackett (Daryl) all of Apex, NC; grandchildren, Mitchell Brackett of Durham, and Adrienne Brackett of Cary; and a host of family and friends whom she loved.

A graveside funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026,at 3 pm at Lafayette Memorial Park on Ramsey St. in Fayetteville and is open to all. A reception honoring Hilda's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 2 to 4 pm at the First Baptist Church in Sanford.

Funeral arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com