Dianne Kennedy

A woman of love, hard work and determination graced the world with her presence for 91 years. Dianne passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2025 surrounded by her loving son Kevin, her daughter Carol and her long time devoted partner Ronald Lee. Dianne was born on January 5, 1934. She was the daughter of Theron Akers & Donna (Slarrow) Akers. She was proceeded in death by her loving parents and her Grandson Kevin James Kennedy.

Dianne graduated from Central High School in Traverse City, Mi. Class of 1952. After graduation she attended NMC in Traverse City studying Interior Design.

She married Charles Kennedy of Winter Garden, Fl at Central United Methodist Church on Cass St. in Traverse City, MI on June 17, 1961. They had three beautiful children. Kevin Kennedy of Interlochen, MI. John (Marci) Kennedy of Kalkaska, MI. and Carol (Eric) Thayer of Kingsley, MI. Her children blessed her with 9 amazing Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren.

Dianne worked for a Grand Traverse County District Court Judge as his Clerk. She also worked as a secretary to the Sheriff of Grand Traverse County. She would eventually retire from Michigan Bell/AT&T after serving for 33 years. She began her career there as an Operator, finishing her career in their Business Sales Office.

She was active in Eastern Star, Rainbow Girls and loved hosting her many Sorority sisters at her home. She was also very active in The Pioneers of Michigan Bell. After her retirement Dianne loved to winter in Ormond Beach, Fl and did so for 30 years. While in Florida she volunteered at a local Elementary School tutoring children that needed extra help.

Dianne loved to bowl. She was on a league for several years. She was an excellent seamstress too. Making herself and her children their clothing. Her true passion, however, was dancing. She could win any swing dance contest she entered. She talked often about buying herself a new dress and shoes. Then walking downtown from her home on West 11th St. to The Brook in Traverse City to dance the night away.

The family will have a private graveside memorial in the Spring where Dianne will be buried next to her mother and several of her family members.

A special Thank you from the family of Dianne to the staff at Independence Village in Traverse City MI, AdvisaCare and AdvisaCare Hospice for their unwavering love and support to Dianne, her two children Kevin, Carol, her Grandson Michael Hansen and her devoted partner Ron Lee during this difficult time. We would also like to thank everyone for their well wishes, condolences and prayers we have already received. Our Mother is already deeply missed.

Memorial Contributions maybe to AdvisaCare of Lake City, 61 N. Morey, Lake City, Michigan 49651.

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