Thomas Ray Kennedy, age 78, of Hansen, Idaho, passed away on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2018, at home his home.
Born Sunday, August 13, 1939, in Clover Lick, he was a son of the late Jasper “Jack” Clarence and Violet Howdyshell Kennedy.
Thomas served 27 years in the United States Army, and received several medals for bravery and courage and five Battle Stars. He also received an Air Medal for flying 25 missions over enemy territory, picking up wounded soldiers.
After retiring from the Army and traveling all over the world, Tom, and his wife, Crystal, settled in Hansen, Idaho.
Tom was well-known for his sense of humor in storytelling. One of his stories was recently published in a book, Coal Miners and Mountaineers.
He devoted time to the Magic Valley Honor Guard until his death. He took great pride in his Hansen community, serving as mayor and city council member for 16 years. He helped the elderly maintain their property, picked up trash throughout the community, mowed grass alongside the railroad tracks and repaired water leaks. Tom maintained the Rock Creek/Hansen Cemetery and also helped with the upkeep on the Clawson Cemetery in Pocahontas County.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jesse Clarence and Chester Wayne; and two sisters, Fern Marie and Geraldine Hester.
In addition to his wife of 35 years, he is survived by four children, Jeremy, Jason, Sheila and Erlene; 18 grandchildren; one great grandchild; a sister, Judith Ann; two brothers, Eddie Rogers and Joseph Henry; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Tom’s wish for cremation was honored and his cremains will be returned to his favorite place in the world, Clover Lick.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held Sunday, July 15, 2 p.m. during the Friel Reunion at the pavilion in the parking lot at Cass.