Jesse Wilford "JW" Kennedy, 91, Sundance, WY, died Sunday, November 4, 2012 at the Crook County Memorial Nursing Home.

He was born on December 2, 1920 in Kansas to Alice and Clarence Kennedy. During his childhood he attended school in Recluse, WY and as a young man he worked for an oil company in Newcastle, WY. At a local dance, he met his sweetheart Lois Bowers and they were married on May 23rd, 1943 in Sundance, WY. Not long after, he was drafted into the United States Army active duty and served his country from 1944 to 1946 during World War II. After his return from the service, he began ranching near Lois' hometown of Sundance. In 1960, JW and Lois welcomed their adopted son, Harold, into the family.

JW was a dedicated rancher and enjoyed horseback riding and fixing machinery, all of which he introduced to many local youth helping them learn about ranching. In the mid 1990's, JW and Lois took a rest from the ranching life and moved into Sundance. They enjoyed getting to know their neighbors and spent their time around family and friends. Health issues led to JW being admitted into the nursing home for the last few years, and he and Lois were beside one another until his passing.

JW is survived by his wife, Lois Kennedy of Sundance, WY, a sister, Inez Hoblit of Sheridan, WY and grandson, Ben (Morgan) Kennedy of Lander, WY along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents Alice & Clarence Kennedy and son, Harold Kennedy.


Visitation will be from 9:30-11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 9, 2012 at Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel in Sundance. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 A.M. at the chapel with burial to follow at Mt. Moriah Cemetery.