Tributes

Pastor Kennedy Young Sr. It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we honor the life of Pastor Kennedy Young, Sr., a distinguished city leader, devoted pastor, national preacher, and international aid director. He passed away peacefully, leaving an enduring legacy of faith, service, and compassion. Born on August 29, 1960, to the late Kenneth Young, Sr. and Mary Young-Love, Kennedy was raised in Cleveland, Ohio, in a nurturing environment filled with love and support from his family, which included his seven siblings: Elijah, Kenneth, the late Belynda Young-Wesley, Tony, Butchie, Freddie, and Kim. Kennedy's educational journey began in the Cleveland school system, where he laid the groundwork for a bright future. He further pursued higher education obtaining a trade degree in chemical engineering at Cleveland Pneumatic. However, it was his spiritual calling that led him to Dallas Theological Seminary, where he earned a Master of Divinity. A proud member of both the United States Marines and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he exemplified the fraternity's values of brotherhood, scholarship, and community service. Kennedy's ministry took root under the mentorship of Dr. Kelly J. Wright at Mt. Esther Baptist Church, where he first felt the divine calling to serve. In the late 1970s, he transitioned from a promising career as a chemical engineer at Omega Geo-source in Odessa, Texas, to committing himself full-time to pastoral work. Over the course of more than thirty years, he led congregations with unwavering dedication, starting with his early years in Andrews, Texas, and then moving on to First Independent Baptist Church in Corsicana, Greater Shiloh Baptist Church, and ultimately, the historic Olivet Baptist Church in Austin, Texas. His contributions to the National Baptist Convention, Inc. USA, were both significant and impactful, where he served as a theological contributor, co-chair of the Foreign Mission Board, and championed missions in Haiti and Liberia. Kennedy lived by the guiding principle of "ministering to the masses, with the mercy of the master," a testament to his commitment to spreading hope and compassion. In East Austin, he was a passionate philanthropist, spearheading initiatives such as the "Helping H.A.N.D.S. Center" and the "K.E.Y.S.S." (Keeping Every Youth Safe and Strong) summer youth program, which aimed to ensure the safety and empowerment of young individuals. His visionary efforts in community revitalization through the "ARA revitalization" initiative played a crucial role in transforming East Austin into a more desirable area for families and residents alike. A man of warmth and generosity, Kennedy had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all backgrounds and walks of life. He lived out the spirit of Hebrews 13:2, which encourages us to show hospitality to strangers, reminding us that such acts may lead to encounters with angels. His influence extended beyond the church; he was a devoted husband to Marchelle Dukes-Currie and Lucilla Hurst and a loving father to his children: Kennedy Young, Jr. (Rayna), Kamaron (Alicia), Keiah, and Tracy. He took great pride in his role as a grandfather to Kanaan, Kendahl, Imani, Blake, Keegan, Kynnedi, and great grandchildren Kya’ Yonni Gross, Xaire Gross, and Aubrielle Gross nurturing them with love, wisdom, and guidance. Kennedy continued to serve faithfully at Olivet Baptist Church until health challenges necessitated a move, first to Plano, Texas, and later back to his cherished Cleveland, where he remained a source of inspiration and support to all who knew him. As we reflect on the life and legacy of Pastor Kennedy Young, Sr., we find solace in the words of Revelation 14:13: "Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on." His life was a profound testament to faith, service, and unconditional love, and his spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come. We are grateful for the privilege of having known him and for the lasting impact he has made on countless lives.

Tributes

Pastor Kennedy Young Sr

August 29, 1960 - December 1, 2025