J. Ross Kennedy, Jr., 75, of Summerville, South Carolina, husband of Kathryn Johnson Kennedy, entered into eternal rest on Monday, June 22, 2026. His Funeral Service will be held Friday, July 10, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Cooper River Baptist Church, 1059 Crawford Street, North Charleston, SC. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road, North Charleston, SC 29406.

Ross was born September 9, 1950, in Georgetown, South Carolina, a son of the late Jack Ross Kennedy, Sr. and the late Dorothy Nell Barrineau Kennedy. He was raised in North Charleston and graduated from North Charleston High School. He attended Appalachian State University, where he earned a Master's Degree in Music with a minor in Education. While at Appalachian State, he met the love of his life, Kathryn "Kathy" Johnson Kennedy, in the university band. Their shared love of music sparked a lifelong partnership, and they remained devoted to one another throughout 55 years of marriage. Kathy was by Ross's side through every stage of life, supporting him in all his endeavors and faithfully caring for him until the very end.

Ross was a proud member of the Rho Tau Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity at Appalachian State University. A gifted educator and lifelong musician, he dedicated many years to teaching as a band director at Martinsville Junior High (Virginia), North Charleston High School, Stall High School, and Mount Pleasant High School (North Carolina). He had a profound impact on countless students and treasured the relationships he built with both his students and their families throughout his career.

Ross was also the owner of Carolina Music, where he continued sharing his passion for music with generations of musicians. Through his business, he supported local bands and supplied instruments to schools throughout South Carolina, helping young musicians discover and develop their talents.

Outside of his profession, Ross enjoyed traveling especially in the mountains and traveling to the family farm in West Virginia. Ross and Kathy spent time together riding motorcycles with their friends in Chapter 264 of the Star Touring and Riding Group. He was an avid supporter of the South Carolina Gamecocks, a lover of all things music, and looked forward each week to spending time with his beloved Friday Zoom Crew.

Most of all, Ross loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose warmth, humor, generosity, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He never missed an opportunity to share the latest score, game result, or sports headline, and family and friends could always count on a call or message from Ross with an update before it appeared anywhere else.

In addition to his beloved wife of 55 years, Kathryn Johnson Kennedy, he is survived by his son, Jack Ross Kennedy III (Amber); his granddaughters, Savannah Hargett (Jordon), Madison Kennedy, and Kelsey Kennedy; his great-grandchildren, Ella, Jay Dawson, and Rory; his brothers, David Kennedy (Suzanne), Brett Kennedy (Stella), Chris Kennedy (Susie), and Chad Kennedy (Amy); and his sister, Ellen Thompson (Tom).

Ross also leaves behind a large extended family of cherished nieces, nephews, bonus children, and dear friends who became family. The Kennedy family has always welcomed others into their circle, and countless loved ones shared in their adventures, celebrations, traditions, and memories over the years. Each held a special place in Ross's heart and will continue to be a treasured part of the Kennedy family.

In addition to his parents, Ross was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Mark D. Kennedy.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Memory of J. Ross Kennedy Jr. to the Harbinson Family Music Scholarship Endowment at Appalachian State University by visiting https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/54088/donations/new *Under Fund Choice you must type “Harbinson” to select the scholarship.

A memorial message may be sent to the family by visiting www.jhenrystuhr.com.