Etta Marie Kennedy
April 2, 1936 – November 1, 2020
Etta Marie Kennedy entered the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, November 1, 2020, at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma at the age of 84. Etta Marie was born on April 2, 1936 in Cashion, Oklahoma to George Elmo Wells and Ruth Shirley Wells. Etta Marie attended Deer Creek schools through her sophomore year when she moved to Edmond and graduated from Edmond High School in 1954. During this time, she met her husband, Thomas “Tom” Nolan Kennedy, Sr., who attended John Marshall High School. Tom and Etta Marie were married June 7, 1958, and enjoyed 61 years together.
Etta Marie was a devoted mother and wife and raised their children in Edmond, Oklahoma while supporting her husband in the tire industry. Tom and Etta Marie opened Edmond Tire Center in 1974, which is still owned and operated by the Kennedy family under the name Kennedy Tire & Auto Service.
Etta Marie was a loyal friend and kept in touch with many throughout her life. She dedicated her life to Jesus Christ at the age of 28 and was actively involved in Henderson Hills Baptist Church since 1964. Her hobbies included traveling, genealogy, quilting, antiquing, and most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren.
Etta Marie was preceded in death by her husband Tom, father George Elmo Wells, and mother Ruth Shirley Wells. She is survived by her two sisters Cheryl Ann Weiss and Georgene Ruth Patrick and her two children: daughter, Tamara Roper, her husband Randy, and children, Kylie Mayes (Jordan) and Lanie Frye (Keeton), son Thomas “Tad” Nolan Kennedy, Jr., his wife, Karen, and children, Thomas “Trey” Nolan Kennedy, III (Katie) and Kaci Newton (Grant).
Memorial contributions can be made to Boys Ranch Town, 5100 E 33rd St, Edmond, OK 73013
Services are scheduled as follows, 1:00 p.m. Wednesday Nov. 4, 2020 Graveside service at Gracelawn Cemetery with a celebration of life service to follow at 2:00 p.m. at Matthews Funeral Home Chapel.
We will be live streaming this service in an effort to accommodate those people that wish to attend but feel they should not due to the health environment. To watch the service CLICK HERE to go to our YouTube page. Then click on ‘Videos’ then ‘Live Streams’.
Kennedy family. I am saddened to hear of Etta Marie’s passing. She was a kind and generous person always thinking of others. She and Betty Lou are having a class of 1954 reunion in heaven.
So sorry to hear about the loss of Etta Marie. She was so kind and sweet. Sweet smile and wit. Also sorry for the loss of Tom. May they rest in peace together. Hugs to each of you. Love and prayers, Marsha Cordray Baxter LPN
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom, Etta Marie. Although we did not have chance to meet her in person it is clear what a strong and loving women she was by the legacy of family and character of those who she loved. Our prayers are with you during this time of great loss.
I am so sorry to hear of Etta Marie’s passing. She was a treasured cousin & beloved family member. She will be greatly missed! Prayers to all her family.
Tad, Tamara and Family, Please accept my humblest condolences on your Mom’s passing.
I just watched the funeral thru a face full of tears and want to say that you both did a wonderful job! Additionally, you brought me some big smiles!
I have fond memories or spending New Years with your parents at Lake Eufala playing games, fishing etc.You are so fortunate to have been brought up by such wonderful parents. May our God comfort and bless you in the days ahead.