Reverend Kenneth "Kenn" Jennings

The Reverend Kenn Jennings, a devoted servant of God, passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Lakeland Regional Health Hospital in Lakeland, FL. His untimely departure was caused by heart failure, leaving behind a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be announced soon.

Born on October 8, 1946, in Norfolk, VA, Kenn was the cherished son of Ralph and Margaret (Clark) Jennings. He grew up in Lakeland, FL, attending Central Avenue Elementary School, Lakeland Junior High School, and graduating from Lakeland Senior High School in the Class of 1964. Kenn pursued his academic journey at the University of Florida in Gainesville, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 1968. Later, in 1986, he furthered his education at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, earning a Master of Business Administration.

Driven by his profound faith, Kenn answered the calling to serve the United Methodist Church. In 1969, he received a Master of Divinity degree from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1973, he was ordained an Elder in Full Connection in the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. Throughout his dedicated career, Kenn ministered in various United Methodist churches, including Holiday, St. James in Palatka, Lakeview in Miami, Highlands-Hutto Chapel in Jacksonville, Isle of Palms in Jacksonville Beach, and First in Frostproof. His compassionate spirit and unwavering commitment to spreading the word of God touched the lives of countless individuals.

While fulfilling his pastoral duties, Kenn also worked as an accountant for H&R Block, providing invaluable support and care for his ailing mother during her declining health. He balanced his love for numbers with his love for music, serving as an organist and/or music director in several local congregations. Most recently, he delighted the parishioners of Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Winter Haven with his musical talents.

Beyond his pastoral and professional pursuits, Kenn had a passion for stamp collecting. He found joy in attending stamp collector conventions and gatherings, where he could indulge in his hobby and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Kenn will be remembered for his unwavering faith, compassionate nature, and deep love for his family, friends, and community. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and devotion that will continue to inspire all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Reverend Kenn Jennings will be held at First United Methodist Church of Lakeland on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 10:00 am. For those who cannot attend, the service will be livestreamed at www.firstumc.org/funeral-service/

In lieu of flowers, contributions to your favorite charity in Kenn's memory are most welcome, reflecting his compassionate spirit and dedication to serving others.

As we mourn the loss of Reverend Kenn Jennings, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he lived and the profound impact he made. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory be a blessing to us all.