02/20/2026
Attorney William D. Kennedy, 98, of Ironton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at SOMC Hospice of Portsmouth. The Ironton native was born May 21, 1927, in Reedsville, KY to the late John Milton Kennedy and Stella (Arden) Kennedy.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death on January 2, 2024, by his loving wife of 64 years; Phyllis Louann (Loukx) Kennedy; siblings, Oakley Kennedy, Huxley Kennedy, Morton Kennedy, James Hubert Kennedy, Martha Lois Ison, Eula Marie Kennedy, and Mary Lou Cassidy.
He is survived by his two children, Richard Dean Kennedy and Sharon (Larry) Kennedy-Norris, and his grandson, Larry Norris III.
He attended Green High School, graduating with the class of 1945, and went on to attend The Ohio State University, where he received his bachelor's degree in psychology. He then attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, earning his Juris Doctor degree in law. William was the prosecuting attorney for Lawrence County from 1969 - 1972 and operated Kennedy and Kennedy Law Office for 67 years retiring in 2024.
In addition to his honorable education and work background, William was a member of the Lawrence County Bar Association, active in the Ohio State Bar Association, and served on The Ohio State University Alumni Association Scholarship Committee. He was an active member of the Lawrence Lodge 198 Free and Accepted Masons for over 60 years and a member of the Valley of Cincinnati Scottish Rite, as well as a member of York Rite.
Masonic services provided by the Lawrence Lodge #198 followed by funeral services at 1:00 P.M., Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Tracy Brammer-Monroe Funeral Home, 518 South 6th Street Ironton, Ohio with Pastor Eric Barnes officiating. Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery. The Kennedy family will receive friends, Tuesday from 11:30 A.M. until the time of service at the funeral home. Donations can be made in Mr. Kennedy's honor to the First Baptist Church, 304 South 5th Street in Ironton, Ohio 45638. Tracy Brammer Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with services. To offer the family condolences, please visit www.TracyBrammerfh.com.
Lawrence County Bar Association will serve as honorary pallbearers.