I bring the sad news of the death of our Chief, Rody Kennedy on 16th November 2022. Rody was steeped in Irish Kennedy history, tracing his Kennedy ancestry back through the generations on both his father’s and mother’s lines. He hosted the first Kennedy Clan gathering in his Angelsey Lounge in Rearcross in 2011. In 2014 he was inaugurated as Chief of the Irish Kennedys. Rody took on the role in his quiet unassuming manner, greeting and welcoming all Kennedy visitors with a warm smile and firm handshake. Despite being involved in everything that was happening in Rearcross, he always took the time to chat and trace with visitors over a cup of tea (or stronger) and a plate of sandwiches. Together with his wife Ann he proved a most genial and welcoming host. His passing, after a very short illness, has left a huge void in the lives of many as shown by the huge turnout of mourners at his funeral. It was fitting that Rody’s final journey from Rearcross was on a horse drawn carriage, reflecting his life- long love for horses. Our sincere sympathy to Ann, sons Tommy and Darragh, Rody’s brothers and sisters and his wide circle of relations and friends.
