In Memory of Jeff Kennedy’s Generosity

The Diocese of Joliet is mourning the loss of Jeff Kennedy, a longtime member of Visitation Parish in Elmhurst and a fervent supporter of vocations and seminarian formation. Jeff passed away in June 2022 at age 80.

Concerned about the decline in active priests serving the diocese, Jeff approached the issue in a true spirit of Christian stewardship, dedicating his time, talent and treasure to increasing vocations to the priesthood and bolstering funding for seminarian education.

Every fall and spring for many years, Jeff visited with our seminarians at Mundelein Seminary. He once called these meetings a “shot of spiritual adrenaline” because they increased his optimism not only for the future of the priesthood, but also about the quality of men pursuing this holy office.

Jeff once said, “We Joliet Catholics are truly blessed! But with blessings come responsibility and sacrifice. These seminarians and newly ordained priests do not miraculously descend from Heaven, fully formed and ready to hit the altar.”

As a member of the Diocesan Development Committee, Jeff was integral to establishing the Diocese of Joliet Seminarian Education Endowment Trust. In addition to making his own gift to the endowment, he helped raise millions of dollars for the formation of future diocesan priests through the I Will Give You Shepherds campaign. With a bequest in his estate plan, he ensured his support of seminarian education would continue in perpetuity.

Please join us in honoring Jeff’s legacy with a bequest to the Diocese of Joliet Seminarian Education Endowment Trust.