Nellie Jean (Jones) Kennedy, 73, of Kinston, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025. She was born on February 15, 1952, in Duplin County, North Carolina, and spent much of her life in Kinston, where she was deeply rooted in family and community.

Nellie was preceded in death by her parents, Ashley Jones and Nellie Todd; her beloved husband, Dwight Kennedy, whom she married on September 9, 1966; and her sons, Kenneth Kennedy and Michael Kennedy.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Kimberly (Kennedy) Jackson and her husband Tony Jackson, and Amy (Kennedy) Stroud and her husband Greg Stroud. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: James Dillon, Jodi Oliynykov, Lindsey Rudy, Greg Stroud, and Matthew Dillon, all of whom were a great source of pride and joy in her life.

Nellie was a devoted caregiver by nature and by calling. She dedicated her life to caring for others, always placing the needs of her family first. Known for her sweet and loving spirit, she touched the lives of everyone who knew her with kindness, compassion, and a gentle heart. She especially loved caring for her dog and treasured the joy and traditions of Christmas, which held a special place in her heart.

Nellie lived by a simple but powerful belief: “Treat everybody the way that you want to be treated.” This guiding principle was evident in the way she loved, served, and cared for those around her.

She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew her, but her love lives on through the many lives she touched.

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