Ernest E. Kennedy

Father Ernest Eugene Kennedy, 86, of Bonneau, retired Roman Catholic Priest, passed away at his home on June 9, 2017.

Father Kennedy was born July 1, 1930 in Charleston, son of the late Ernest E. Kennedy and Ruth Kanapaux Kennedy. He is predeceased by two sisters-Mary Kennedy Ducker and Ann Kennedy Son.

A graduate of Bishop England High School, he went on to attend St. Bernard Seminary in Cullman Alabama. A 1956 graduate of St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore MD., and later went back to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree from Baptist College in North Charleston.

After graduating from Seminary, he returned to South Carolina and began service to the Diocese of Charleston. He served as priest in Columbia, Sumter, Charleston, North Charleston, Bonneau and Moncks Corner. While serving in Moncks Corner, he worked to build St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church.

He later took a leave of absence from the Diocese of Charleston to begin work in the alcohol and drug field. For 21 years he helped set up treatment services for the state of South Carolina. Father Kennedy was the first Director of the Berkeley County Alcohol and Drug Commission, establishing offices in Goose Creek, St. Stephen and Moncks Corner, now known as the Kennedy Center.

Upon retirement his final career was a home ministry, focused on but not limited to, cancer patients. He dedicated himself to loyally visiting and encouraging the people of Berkeley County during their darkest hours. His devotion and friendship touched the lives of many people. Father Kennedy was a humble well- loved man with a sense of humor, smile and servants heart that will not soon be forgotten.

Surviving are nieces- Laurie Byrd (Larry); Pam Blevins (Craig); Rhonda Spencer (Dyke); Terri Hoesman (Emmett Reeder); Deborah Davis (Dan) and Wendy Williams (Joey).



Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Mepkin Abbey, Monday morning, June 19, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. directed by Russell Funeral Chapel. A visitation will be held one hour prior.