James passed away unexpectedly after an tragic accident in Salem on Tuesday, March 21, 2017. He was 59 years of age.  Born and raised in Chelsea, he is the son of the late Elmer George and Christine T. (Mackey) Kennedy.  James attended Chelsea Public Schools and graduated from Chelsea High, Class of 1975.  James was a painter by trade and worked for various painting companies throughout his career.

He is survived by his significant other, Teresa Anderson of Salem. He is the beloved father of Joseph Kennedy of PA, John Kennedy of Worcester, Michael Kennedy, Anthony Kennedy of Saugus and the late James E. Kennedy, Jr.  Dear brother of George R. Kennedy and his wife Susan of CA & IL, Thomas G. Kennedy and his wife Sheila of Arlington.  Also lovingly survived by 3 grandchildren, Toni Kennedy, Aydan Kennedy and Anthony Kennedy Jr.

ARRANGEMENTS:  Funeral services will be conducted in the Carafa Family Funeral Home 389 Washington Ave. Chelsea on Saturday, March 25 at 10:30 A.M. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.  Visitation in the funeral home will precede the service from 8:30 - 10:30 A.M.  Interment will follow the service at Woodlawn Cemetery in Everett.