In Memoriam
From his college days as an award-winning speaker and champion debater to his
most recent role as university president, Larry Kennedy has shown visionary
leadership, thoughtful decision making, and a commitment to excellence. The only
son of Wells Earnest Kennedy and Cecilia Johnson Kennedy, he was born in Ville
Platte, Louisiana, January 13, 1942. Dr. Kennedy grew up in Pensacola,
Florida, where he graduated from Escambia High School. He received a history
degree from Louisiana College, where he attended on a forensics scholarship.
Other degrees he earned include a Masters of Theology degree from New Orleans
Baptist Theological Seminary, and Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy
degrees in history from Mississippi State University.
Dr. Kennedy pastored churches in Mississippi until 1990. During these years he
served in various denominational roles for the Mississippi Baptist Convention,
including membership on the Executive Committee and the Education Commission.
Dr. Kennedy served on the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist
Convention for eight years.
Broadman Press published two of his books: Down with Anxiety and God’s
Answers to Human Dilemmas. He has also contributed articles to various
publications.
In 1991 Dr. Kennedy began his tenure at William Carey University. From 1991-1998
he was professor of religion; dean, Cooper School of Missions and Biblical
Studies; and vice president of church relations. From October 1997–August 1998
he served as interim president. In 1998 he was named president/chief executive
officer.
Remarkable changes have occurred at Carey during his eight years as president. A
mission statement was adopted emphasizing the university’s commitment to
educating students in “scholarship, leadership, and service.” Enrollment grew
from 1,980 to 3,000. New programs and degrees were added, and accreditation was
reaffirmed for ten years. Numerous construction and renovation projects were
completed totaling more than $22 million. Of special significance is the payment
of the university debt of $7.3 million ten months ahead of schedule. The
university is debt-free as it celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2006.
From being named Distinguished Young Man of the Year by the Amory Jaycees and
Outstanding Young Man of America till the present, Dr. Kennedy has been active
in the community. In Hattiesburg he served as a board member of the United Way
and of BancorpSouth. In 2004 he received the Hattiesburg Hub Award for his
outstanding contributions to the community, commitment to excellence, and
dedication to public service. In 2005 Dr. Kennedy was named Executive of the
Year by the Sales and Marketing Executives (SMEI) of Hattiesburg.
In February 2006, business and civic leaders in Hattiesburg honored Dr. Kennedy
at a Celebration of Leadership at the Lake Terrace Convention Center in
recognition of his outstanding leadership in the revitalization and progress of
the university. In May 2006, he observed the opening and dedication of
Donnell Hall, which houses the Center for Study of the Life and Work of William
Carey, D.D. (1761-1834).
Colleagues appreciated his contagious laugh, creative problem solving, and
fairness to all individuals. He was highly disciplined physically, mentally, and
spiritually. Dr. Kennedy and the WCU family embraced the motto of the university
namesake, William Carey, the father of the modern missions movement: “Expect
great things from God; attempt great things for God.”
Survivors include his beloved wife Sarah Johnson Kennedy; son Stephen Kennedy,
his wife Farrah, and grandson Wells of Jackson; son Scott Kennedy of Missoula,
Montana; stepson Kyle Robertson of Laurel; parents Mr. and Mrs. Wells Earnest
Kennedy of Pensacola, Florida; sister Mrs. Toni Perlman of Peachtree City,
Georgia; in-laws Reverend and Mrs. Allen Johnson of Zachary, Louisiana; and
numerous other relatives who mourn his death. He also leaves behind faculty,
staff, students, alumni, donors, and friends who grieve at his untimely death
and appreciated his extraordinary leadership and devotion to the Christian
faith.
Created: May 19, 2006 Updated: April 22, 2009