Dr. Mark Howard Kennedy

Dr. Mark Howard Kennedy, 72, of Brandon, a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, entered eternal glory on September 26, 2024, surrounded by family singing praises to our Redeemer. Mark was born on December 28, 1951, to Howard and Mary Nel Kennedy in Memphis, Tennessee. He later moved to Jackson, MS, where he graduated from Provine High School in 1969. He went on to attend Mississippi College and the University of Tennessee Dental School. Upon graduating from dental school, he served as a United States Navy Dental Officer for two years, including a tour of duty in Okinawa, Japan. His service to his country was one of the proudest accomplishments of his life.

Mark married the love of his life, Debbie Shufelt, in 1994. They celebrated thirty wonderful years earlier this year. Not only was Mark a dentist, but he was also a beloved friend to many patients over the forty-five years he practiced. From 1999 to 2003, he was appointed to serve on the Mississippi Board of Dental Examiners. His volunteer service to Mission First was also one of the most fulfilling aspects of his dental career.

Mark was an avid golfer, history buff, and proud member of the North Jackson Rotary Club. Some of his fondest memories include playing golf with his son, Parker, visiting various battlegrounds, being part of the Civil War Round Table, being named a Paul Harris Fellow, and serving as President of the Rotary Club. He instilled a deep love for the LSU Tigers in his son and several nephews by taking them to countless LSU football games as they grew up. Geaux Tigers.

Above all else, Mark had a deeply rooted love for the Lord. From teaching Sunday School to serving as a deacon in the church, his goal in life was to point others to Jesus Christ.

Mark is survived by his wife, Debbie Kennedy, and his son, Parker Kennedy (Emery), along with his grandmother-in-law, Lois Shufelt, and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Claude and Gail Shufelt. He is also survived by his sister, Jenny Aldridge (John), sister-in-law Chris King (David), brother-in-law Bryan Shufelt (Shannon), sister-in-law Connie Williams (Wade), and many well-loved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Mary Nel Kennedy.

Mark’s celebration of life will be Sunday, September 29 at 2:00 P.M. at Riverside Church in Flowood, with visitation Saturday, September 28 from 6:00-8:00 P.M. and Sunday, September 29 from 12:00-2:00 P.M., both at Riverside Church. Burial will take place following the service at the Magee Cemetery.