Effie (Roberts) Kennedy

Effie Kennedy, 95 years old of Paynesville, WV went to rest in the arms of Jesus March 27th, 2026, at Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg, WV, with her devoted and loving caretakers, son, Seth Kennedy and daughter-in law, Lisa Kennedy, by her side. 

Born with an unwavering work ethic on April 29th,1930 on Rockridge, WV, she was the daughter of Dan Roberts and Mattie Collins.  In addition to her parents and step daddy, Tom Carter, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Charles Emmit Kennedy, a son, Gavin Kennedy, a son-in-law, David Holmes, and a granddaughter Ruby Lester.  

Effie spent her life on a large farm she tended with care and pride.  She found joy in the simple, meaningful rhythms of a rural life including daily walks. She was known for her remarkable skills in sewing, gardening, and canning. She filled cellar and pantry shelves with the fruits and vegetables she canned by hand. Her home often carried the comforting aroma of baked goods and dinners made from scratch.  

A woman of deep faith, Effie rarely missed a Sunday church service that was followed by visits with her family and friends.  She was a proud member of TOPS Club, where she formed lasting friendships and inspired others with her perseverance and positive spirit. 

Above all, Effie was a family woman. She worked tirelessly to provide for those she loved; and delighted in watching her many children and grandchildren grow. They were her greatest treasure, and she poured endless love, wisdom, biscuits and apple pies into their lives. 

Effie’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her life was one of steadfast devotion, courage, strength, and the kind of love that leaves an imprint on everyone who knew her.  

Those left to cherish her memory are her children: Patricia Holmes of Elkton Maryland, Karen (Leon) Christian of Bradshaw, WV, Velda McGrady of Chattanooga, TN, Emmit Keith (Debbie) Kennedy of Bradshaw, WV, Seth (Lisa) Kennedy of Simon, WV, and also a daughter-in-law, Ruth Kennedy of Dayton, TN; grandchildren: Michael (Amy ) Holmes of Elkton, Maryland, Renee (Gene “Ringo”) Kirk of Bluefield, WV, Chase (Sugeily) McGrady of Nashville, TN, Natalie (Jimmy) Adkins of Cleveland, NC, Erica (Christopher) Blankenship of Clear Fork , WV and Felicia (Noah) Cline of Clear Fork , WV; great grandchildren: Amy Mullens, Madeline Holmes, Jillian Holmes, Emmit McGrady, Olivia McGrady, Ethan (Rebekah) Adkins, Xander Blankenship, Xena Blankenship, Bristol Cline, and Kylie Cline; a host of nieces and nephews; and special friends: Pasty Vance, Carolyn Lester, Chelsea Cline, Mary Blankenship, Brenda Cline, Dovie Kenneda,  Paula Gibson, Christopher and RJ Stapleton, The Hagerman’s , and the Morgan brothers from Long Branch. 

Friends may gather with the family Friday, April 3, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. till 9:00 p.m. in the chapel of Fanning Funeral Home, Iaeger, WV.  Funeral services will commence Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Herman Day officiating.  Burial will follow at the Kennedy Family Cemetery in Rockridge, WV.  Effie will be carried to her resting place by pallbearers: Noah Cline, Christopher Blankenship, Chase McGrady, Michael Holmes, RJ Stapleton, and TJ Kennedy.   

Arrangements have been entrusted to Fanning Funeral Home of Iaeger and Mounts Funeral Home of Gilbert.   

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Effie (Roberts) Kennedy, please visit our floral store.