Remembering My Father on What Would Have Been His 91st Birthday

Today, I’m taking a moment of personal reflection to honor someone very special to me. July 15 would have been my father’s 91st birthday. It’s hard to believe that next month will mark 12 years since his passing. Like many of you, I’ve come to recognize just how deeply our parents shape who we are and the values we carry forward.

These days, when I look in the mirror or glance at a family photo, I see more of my father’s face in my own than I ever expected. Strangely, that brings me comfort. There’s a quiet peace in that reflection, a reminder that his presence is still with me.

This year, in particular, has been one he would have been so proud of. Our children, whom he was close to and who still carry him in their hearts, have reached milestones and accomplishments that he would have celebrated with joy. In our home, we often find ourselves saying, “Papa would have loved this,” or “Papa would have had something to say about that.”

My father, James Edward Kennedy, Sr., built a lifelong career in health care facilities and administration. He had a deep, unwavering commitment to the Christian mission of hospital care and a passion for serving others. A devoted leader and innovator, he began humbly in the Housekeeping Department at Kent County Hospital in Warwick, Rhode Island. His work ethic and leadership quickly earned him a promotion to Supervisor. Around that same time, he proudly served in the Army National Guard during the Korean War, where he was assigned to the 147th AAA Detachment Operations.

After completing his military service, he continued to grow professionally. In 1977, he became Director of Environmental Services at New England Memorial Hospital in Stoneham, Massachusetts. True to his nature, he continued pushing forward, pursuing higher education at the University of Massachusetts and completing all coursework toward an associate degree in Business Management. While he was never officially awarded the degree due to the severe dyslexia that had prevented him from finishing high school, his perseverance and intellectual drive were never in doubt.

My father was, without question, the hardest-working person I’ve ever known. While many turn to hobbies for rest or leisure, Dad’s idea of a hobby was picking up extra jobs. During my teenage years, he expanded his after-hours cleaning business into a modern truck-mounted carpet cleaning service called T & J Cleaning Service. I worked alongside him, cleaning carpets, upholstery, drapes, and stripping floors at private schools, businesses, and major restaurants throughout the Boston area. Those long nights and early mornings laid the foundation for who I am today.

Beyond his own work, Dad had a gift for mentoring young people, even if he never saw himself that way. He gave many their first job, whether through his private business or at the hospital. He was a quiet philanthropist, helping cover private Christian school tuition for students in need. His value for education, likely shaped by his own struggles with learning, drove that generosity.

When I first ran for office, Dad was one of my strongest supporters. After I was elected, he encouraged me to share his story with students—especially those who might not believe success was possible for them. He wanted young people to understand that hard work, faith, and integrity can build a life of meaning, even if the path isn’t traditional.

I miss my dad deeply today. But my wife, my children, and so many others carry him with us in all we do. His values, his love, and his strength continue to guide us.

We love you, Dad. Today and every day.

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