Clifford “Cliff” Eugene Kennedy, of Springfield, Missouri, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 27, 2022 at age 73. He lived his life guided by integrity, honesty, generosity, and love.

Cliff was born September 20, 1949 in Joplin, Missouri where he spent his youth. At the age of 19, he met his bride and love of his life, Katherine Mary Carden, while both were working at Tri-State Motor Transit. They were married on June 26, 1970 and spent the next 52 years hand-in-hand. Together they had two children, Diane Renee Carter (Tony), and Dana Lynn Kennedy. Even as the manliest man, he embraced his role as a girl dad. He taught his girls how to sew and how to change a tire. He loved their mother in a way that showed them how a woman should be loved and treasured. He taught them to be independent. He was their hero.

The pride and joy of Cliff’s life were his grandchildren, Connor Eric Kennedy (Brittney), Jackson Kennedy, and Olivia Katherine Estes. He loved spending time with his grandkids, whether it was four-wheeling, doing crafts, supporting them at athletic events, or digging in the dirt. He brought them with him everywhere he could. He loved his grandkids and his grandkids loved him. He was their role model.

In addition to being a dedicated and loving husband, father, and grandfather, Cliff owned and operated Kennedy Contractors, Inc., a heavy earth moving construction company, with his wife, Kathy. Together, they grew a well-respected company that was responsible for large earth work projects and electrical substations in multiple states. Cliff loved his employees as his own family. He was not only an employer, but often a friend, a confidante, and most importantly, a mentor and a teacher. His word was worth more than a contract, his integrity was gold.

Over the years, Cliff never met a stranger. He had a great gift of making people feel included, understood, and heard. Cliff had many friends who were near and dear to him, and greatly enjoyed traveling with friends and family. The family would like to give special thanks to his friend and physician, Dr. Russell “Bubba” Detten, who gave him the most incredible personal care and is a shining example of performing God’s work on earth.

He was a long-time member and board member of Springfield Contractors Association. He was also a member of the National Corvette Restorers Society and served as a Judge of classic Corvettes.

He will forever be missed.

There will be a visitation followed by a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at Greenlawn East, 3540 East Seminole, Springfield, MO 65809. Visitation will be held from 11 am – 1 pm, followed by a service at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcomed at the Springfield Contractors Association.