Obituaries - Raymond E Kennedy, Jr

Raymond E. Kennedy, Jr., of State Route 30, loving husband, father, “Old Pops” and more to his family and friends found peace from this world, the same way he lived his life, surrounded by the love of his family.

Ray was born 93 years ago on June 4, 1932 in Albany, to Erma (Springstead) and Raymond E. Kennedy, Sr. and all of the shenanigans that boys get into growing up served Ray well through all of his 93 years.  He was behind every bit of fun, with a twinkle in his eye and a grin that lit up the room.  It’s not surprising his Irish heritage, given the tales he could spin with blarney.  

He never shied away from work, working for numerous companies, people or around his home, especially looking forward to zooming across the lawns with his zero-turn, waving to admirers on Route 30, honking their horns hello as they passed.  A body in motion stays in motion, even at rest keeping his sights and senses sharp for the prize buck.  Ray loved looking down the barrel and savoring the reward with his family and friends, though nothing made his eyes twinkle brightest or his heart beat happiest than his family. Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of each new generation, instilling his fun and wisdom, he taught them about life, he taught them to love and respect others and the beauty of this world.  

Loving him forever are his wife: Winifred (Shaul) Kennedy of Middleburgh; his daughters: Marilyn “Mert” Diamond of Schoharie, Celeste (Christopher) Parslow of Schoharie, Raelyn (Marc) Mercer of Middleburgh; son: William (JoAnn) Hanson of Conesville; his grandchildren: Brian Diamond, Jason Diamond, Heather Gasner, Megan Hanson, Nathan Parslow, Kylie Parslow-Bradt, Connor Parslow-Bradt, Braedon Cronin, Riley Cronin, Alan M. Hanson, Matthew Hanson, Shyla Hanson and Dustin Hanson, Rose Mercer and Trevor Mercer; his great-grandchildren: Brianna and Lexi Diamond, Hallie and William Gasner, Malina Lambert, Kaylee Fink, Loretta Hanson, Serena Hanson, Sidney Hanson, Georgia Hanson, Kiersten and Alan Hanson; his sisters: Marilyn Kellie and Bonnie Bywater, both of Cobleskill; many nieces and nephews; along with opening his heart to many other “grandchildren-by-love.” Ray was predeceased by his son: Alan R. Hanson and his son-in-law: Leland "Bog" Diamond

All are invited to visit with Ray’s family from 12:00–2:00PM on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Coltrain Funeral Home. LLC 134 River Street, Middleburgh, NY 12122 and to the memorial service following the visitation at 2:00PM. 

Ray’s family requests memorial contributions be sent to the Middleburgh Fire Department, PO Box 778 Middleburgh, NY 12122

Please visit www.coltrainfuneralhome.com to share online condolences with Ray’s family.