Bessie Elizabeth Kennedy, aka “Bonky” went to be with the Lord, with family by her side and the Diamondbacks she adored playing on TV, Thursday, April 11, 2019. She joined her beloved husband, John David Kennedy, her parents; William “Steve” and Iva, brothers; Dale, Don, Dean, and Bill, sister; Winifred, and many other loved ones she dearly missed. Bessie leaves behind her son David (Kelly), grandchild Nick (Michelle), and son Ron (Barbara), grandchildren Steven (Christina), Brian (Judah) and Aaron, great grandchild Addyson, and her brother Preston Hubbs (Colleen). Bessie worked in a lettuce packing facility, as a stocking supervisor for Bar S Foods and at Fry’s Foods as a personal shopper and greeter. She was also known as “Bingo Bessie” because it was her favorite hobby and she played as long as she was able. In her last years, she lived in an assisted living facility where everyone loved her. Bessie was the best of women; kind, loving, and accepting with no judgements. She will be missed beyond words. Her celebration of life will be held Monday, April 22nd, 2019 which would have been her 96th birthday. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am – 10:00 am with a service following from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd, in Phoenix. We will depart in a procession to West Resthaven Cemetery, 6450 W. Northern Ave, in Glendale, for a brief graveside service after which a light luncheon will be served on site. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ.
Alan Carbine and Lynn Konrath
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Even though it was time for Bessie to be with her Lord you still feel the pain and sadness that comes from the love you have for her. Bessie was loved by her family and those who knew her and was blessed to have you to care and be with her till the end. May the love of family and friends comfort you during these difficult days, our most heartfelt condolences.
Carole Smyser (Hubbs)
Those of us who are older remember the days when our parents would turn the porch light on/off several times in the early evening as a way to let us know it was time to come in from playing. When I learned Aunt Bess had passed away, I couldn’t help but wonder if during the night the moon had flickered several times and Father God had simply told her “Bessie, I’ve been keeping the light on for you, but it’s time to come home now.” We are all blessed to have had Aunt Bess in our lives; we are also blessed knowing that we will see her again and hear her infectious laugh. As I mourn her loss, I will continue praying for her family and loved ones as they grieve and mourn the loss of someone so special. Godspeed to Aunt Bess…she will be missed.
Linds & Dean Hubbs
April 21, 2019
We are so grateful that we were able to get to know Aunt Bess over the years. As she grew older and lived alone, it was one of the most blessed times and special memories for us when we would stop by her home and visit with her.
She was a very special, amazing, and strong woman and it was during those visits our love for her grew.
She often talked about her family (children,grandchildren, great grandchild) what a blessing they were to her, and the genuine love and care they gave her over the years was amazing. Her home was full of the love, care, and beauty her family shared with her.
Her living room, Dining-room, and hallway were full of old and new family pictures. Bess would talk about each picture and her memories of each one. (Now we wish we would of made notes of her old stories growing up with her sister and brothers.)
Dean had a deep love in his heart for his Aunt Bess. She often told stories to him about when he was little and when he grew old enough to ride his bike to her house ——just to hang out with her and cousin David. That was the Kennedy’s old homestead on McKinley Avenue in Phoenix.
Linda’s memories are all the love, hugs, and welcoming words Aunt Bess had every single time she saw her. She always wanted to know how we were doing and how our kids and grandkids were doing. She loved to see pictures of them and hear stories of our family.
Our sweet Aunt Bess was so loved and respected. She truly was a person that so many looked up to and absolutely loved being in her company.
We’re saddened by her loss, but know that she is at peace and safe in the arms of Jesus and all those who have gone on before her.
Love,
Dean and Linda Hubbs
Sharing with the Kennedy Family a Song by “Mercy me”
I (We)can only Imagine
I can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk, by your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When you face is before me
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
I can only imagine when that day comes
When I find myself standing in the Son
I can only imagine when all I would do is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine
I can only imagine