Robert J. Kendrick

Robert J. Kendrick, 86, of Anna, died at 12:15 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Marion.

He was born on April 30, 1936, in Albion, the son of William and Naomi Bunnage Kendrick.

He was a 1954 graduate of Chester High School, where he was a member of the Chester Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a feared adversary when he stepped on the football field and the basketball court. 

He took great pride in being a Marine Corps veteran. He looked forward to spending time with the Morning Coffee Crew, as well as game nights with friends. 

He also loved keeping in touch with extended family members. He enjoyed lighthearted debates (which he always won), watching sports, playing games, helping with dinner and spending time with his family. 

Mr. Kendrick is survived by his only child, Robby (Lynne) Kendrick of Jonesboro; two granddaughters, Ashley (Dillon) Lascelles of Vienna and Courtney Kendrick of “Where are you now?”- Bob; two great-grandchildren, Addilynne Jo and Grayson Robert Lascelles of Vienna; as well as several other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Nancy Jo (Keller) Kendrick; his parents, William and Naomi Kendrick; sisters Ruth Bendof, Gerry Hamilton, Eldonna Harlan and Elanor Brunhofer; and one brother, Richard Kendrick.

Mr. Kendrick. Robert. Bob. Papa. Coach. Dad. Husband. Brother. Son. Friend. Uncle. Roberto. B3. Big Bad Bob. 

Semper Fi.

A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, Feb. 18, at 1 p.m. at Crain Funeral Home at Anna. Friends can call at the funeral home from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. 

Military rites will be accorded at 1 p.m.  at the funeral home by Veterans of Foreign Wars Carroll P. Foster Post No. 3455 of Anna. 

Memorials can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to Veterans of Foreign Wars Carroll P. Foster Post No. 3455 of Anna. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Crain Funeral Home in Anna-Jonesboro is in charge of arrangements.