Virgil John Kennedy

Virgil John Kennedy, 87, of Montgomery, TX, died March 22, 2013. He was born March 31, 1925 in Metropolis, Illinois. Virgil was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Shirley Kennedy; son Bruce Walter Kennedy of Bossier City, LA; parents Clay and Minnie Kennedy; brother James Kennedy and sister, Emma Kennedy. He is survived by son Doug Kennedy and wife Linda, daughter Elizabeth Clare Conces and husband Robert; grandchildren Kimberly Smith and husband Lee, Kari Kennedy, Jennifer Nickerson and husband Todd, Josh Cheatham and wife Gayle, Allison Makus and husband Dennis, Anna Everett and husband Mark; great-grandchildren Savannah Smith, Brock and Emma Nickerson, Colby and Morgan Cheatham and Kahlan Makus; sisters-in-law Mary Kennedy, Louise Joergins, Audrey Krummrich and husband Richard, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Virgil graduated with honors from Cairo High School, joined the U.S. Navy, and entered the Naval ROTC Program at Notre Dame University. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as an Ensign, and served on the Battleship USS North Carolina. While in the Navy, he married the love of his life, Shirley Mae Tegtmeier. He also served in the Korean War. After serving in WWII, he attended the University of Illinois and received a degree in Geology. He later obtained his Masters Degree. Virgil spent his professional career with Shell Oil Company and retired after 38 successful years. Virgil and Shirley spent their retirement years in Walden where they enjoyed golfing and traveling with family and friends. They were charter members of Grace Lutheran Church of Conroe. Virgil was an avid reader, a quick wit, and a very astute individual. He accomplished many things in his life but he was most proud of what he achieved through this family. We will miss you Friendie! Grandpa! And Poppy! Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 27th, at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home in Montgomery, TX. From 6 to 8 PM. The funeral service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church 13123 Hwy 105 W., Conroe, TX on Thursday, March 28th at 10AM with Pastor Lorin Darst officiating. Pallbearers include: Lee Smith, Todd Nickerson, Brock Nickerson, Josh Cheatham, Dennis Makus, and Mark Everett. A private burial will follow at Garden Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or Traditions Hospice. The family is grateful for the wonderful care and support from Dr. Shane Simpson and staff. We are also touched and blessed by the care Virgil received from the loving staff of Traditions Hospice. You are invited to leave a written condolence to the family on our website at www.shmfh.com.

Virgil John Kennedy

March 31, 1925 - March 28, 2013