Ronald Lee Kennedy, 80, of Frankfort, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at his home.
He was born on November 17, 1945, in Frankfort, Indiana, to the late Arthur Kennedy and Jeanette Burt (Simmons).
Ronald proudly served his country in the United States Navy. On November 30, 1979, he married Shirley, and the two shared 44 years of marriage together before her passing.
A true outdoorsman at heart, Ronald had a deep appreciation for nature, history, and working with his hands. He loved hunting for arrowheads, fishing, and shooting guns, but he held a particular passion for Native American history and traditions. Ronald was skilled in knifemaking and flint knapping and took great pride in sharing those skills with others through demonstrations and teaching. After retirement, he and Shirley traveled to many Native American powwows together, creating memories while enjoying something that had become such a meaningful part of Ronald’s life.
Music was another love that stayed with Ronald throughout his lifetime. In his younger years, he played guitar in a band, and although his days of playing with the band eventually passed, the guitar never really left his hands. His love for playing and for music in general remained with him throughout his life.
Ronald was also a hardworking man who spent many years on the road as a truck driver and, for a time, owned and operated his own construction business. He was happiest when he could be outdoors, creating something with his hands, playing his guitar, or sharing the things he loved with those around him.
He is survived by his sons, Karl (Diane) Watson, Tim (Nancy) Kennedy, Keith Kennedy, David (Eileen) Watson, Jay (Leigh) Watson, and Ronald Kennedy, Jr.; daughters, Valerie (Jim) Scott and Shannon (Carol) Scudder; brother, Gene Kennedy of Florida; 34 grandchildren; and 44 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 44 years, Shirley Kennedy; and his parents, Arthur Kennedy and Jeanette Burt.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at Day & Genda Funeral Home in Frankfort. Burial will follow at Green Lawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ronald’s honor to the Native American Children’s Fund or the American Cancer Society.
Messages of condolence may be left at www.dayandgenda.com.