Born on November 29, 1939, in Galveston, Texas, Cecil was the son of Cecil C. Kennedy, Sr. and wife Annie Ruth. He pursued his education at the University of Houston, earning a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1964.

Cecil worked as a pharmacist, serving the Plano community for two decades.  Cecil was an accomplished bodybuilder, earning the title of Mr. Texas in 1976. In 1986, he moved to Bonham, Texas, where he became owner and operator of Kennedy Arbor Tree Farm.

Building a respected business before eventually retiring. Cecil remained active in retirement and passionate about fitness, opening Total Fitness Center and later Nautilus Total Fitness Center in Bonham.

Cecil is survived by his daughter, Cecilia Kennedy; his grandchildren, Noah Phea and Ari Phea; and his niece Kathy Partridge Ward and her husband Michael Wiseman and his nephew Kelly Partridge and his wife Waverly Partridge. Also survived by his great niece Emily Ward and his great nephew C.J. Ward. 

The family extends much gratitude to his special friends—Kenneth Lee McFail, Seth Avery, Mike Ardis, and Margrite Kennedy.  They also wish to express their sincere appreciation to the compassionate caregivers at Nanaw’s for the kindness and care shown to Cecil.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, 11:00 a.m., at Calvary Baptist Church.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence please visit, www.coopersorrells.com