(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)Leanna Joyce Kennedy, 73, of Linthicum Heights, Maryland, formerly of Webb City, Missouri, passed away on Saturday evening, January 20, 2024, after sudden illness at Medstar Harbor Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland.
Born on March 21, 1950, in Webb City, Missouri, Leanna's journey through life was marked by her unwavering strength and passionate commitment to her country and loved ones.
Leanna was a graduate of Webb City High School, class of 1967. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to personal growth led her to further her education at the University of Missouri in Columbia, culminating in a Master's degree that would serve as the foundation for her remarkable career.
Her service to the nation was nothing short of extraordinary. Leanna served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War era, demonstrating early on her selfless nature and love for her country. Not content with one tour of duty, she re-enlisted in the Army, further solidifying her reputation as a courageous and committed patriot.
After being honorably discharged, Leanna continued her life of service as a librarian at the federal prison in McAlester, Oklahoma. Her skills and dedication caught the attention of the United States Department of Defense, where she worked as an Analyst overseas before transferring to Maryland. She retired in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and patriotism.
Leanna's life was a testament to her independent and strong-willed nature. She was a woman of conviction and a passionate debater. Her opinions were as strong as her spirit, and she was respected by all who knew her for her directness and integrity.
Her interests were as diverse as her talents. Leanna loved her country, her cats, and the great outdoors. Hiking with her friend, Kathryn Dzakowic and traveling were among her favorite pastimes, allowing her to explore the world and its myriad wonders. She was also an avid supporter of Cat Rescue of Maryland. She lived her life with a passion that was contagious, inspiring those around her to embrace life with the same fervor.
Leanna's life was a testament to her independent and strong-willed nature. She was a woman of conviction and a passionate debater. Her opinions were as strong as her spirit, and she was respected by all who knew her for her directness and integrity.
Her interests were as diverse as her talents. Leanna loved her country, her cats, and the great outdoors. Hiking with her friend, Kathryn Dzakowic and traveling were among her favorite pastimes, allowing her to explore the world and its myriad wonders. She was also an avid supporter of Cat Rescue of Maryland. She lived her life with a passion that was contagious, inspiring those around her to embrace life with the same fervor.
Leanna was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Earl and Lucille (Good) Kennedy, and her brother-in-law, John S. Bailey. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by her beloved sister, Lucille Bailey of Joplin, Missouri; her devoted nieces, Michelle Rooffener and husband, Lowell, and Elizabeth Bailey; her nephew, Travis Bailey; her adored great-nieces and nephews, Joran Bailey, Lora Rooffener, Jonathon Brown, and Steven Rooffener; and her great-great-nephew, Jasper Brown.
As we bid farewell to Leanna Joyce Kennedy, we celebrate a life lived with honor, a life that exemplified the very best of the human spirit. Her memory will continue to inspire and guide us, just as her presence once did. Leanna's journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told for generations to come, a story of a true American hero whose light will never fade.
A private committal service will be held at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with full Military Honors. Services are under the personal care and direction of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.
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