Michael John Kennedy

Conway……It is with heavy hearts that we remember and celebrate the life of Michael John Kennedy. Born in Meriden, Connecticut, in 1952 to Ralph and Elizabeth (Daley) Kennedy, Michael was a member of St. Joseph Church. He attended St. Joseph Catholic School and graduated from Xavier Catholic High School in Middletown, Connecticut, with the Class of 1971. He worked for 38 years as a salesman for Drake's and Hostess Cakes while also serving as a steward for the New England Teamsters. Michael married his high school sweetheart, Cindy, in 1974. They lived in Meriden until 2020, when they retired to his dream home on the Avocet Golf Course in Wild Wing Plantation in Conway, South Carolina. He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Cynthia (Labbe) Kennedy; his daughter, Erin (Brian) Chiz; his son, Brian; and his five grandchildren, Keira, Michael and Kayleigh Kennedy, and James and Alex Chiz. He is also survived by his sister, Kathleen; his brother, Peter (Linda) Kennedy; his sisters in law, Beverly Kennedy, Carol (Rodney) Donath and Cheryl (John) Sears; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Kennedy, his parents and his in laws. Mike was an avid golfer and was well known around the links. He was so proud that his three grandsons were following in his footsteps by playing golf, and he loved sharing all of his grandchildren's accomplishments. Mike truly had a coach's heart. He first coached Erin in softball and Brian in baseball, and that same encouragement and positivity shone through with all of his golfing friends and everyone he played with. Mike was always the first to ask how you were doing, and he meant it. His genuine sincerity was felt by all. Mike especially enjoyed playing golf with the many friends he and Cindy made in the home they loved. His quick wit and infectious sense of humor made him a popular playing partner with everyone he met. He especially loved the Tuesday and Saturday men's leagues that he helped organize, while Cindy did the same for the ladies, and participating in the many scrambles and league events. Anyone who had the privilege of playing with Mike and Cindy couldn't help but smile when he called her "Sparky" or celebrated NOT getting Cobra. Mike's genuine love for others and good nature brightened the day of each person he met, from the pro shop staff, starters and rangers to friends on the golf course, friends playing Left Right Center or simply friends stopping by for a surprise golf cart visit. Your day was better for seeing him and your life was better for knowing him. He was a forever friend who will be deeply missed until we meet again. A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, October 17, 2026 at the Wild Wing Plantation Clubhouse, 1000 Wild Wing Blvd., Conway, SC 29526. Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com Goldfinch Funeral Home, Conway Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

Michael John Kennedy

August 24, 1952 - September 8, 2026