Obituary of Reatha Kennedy

Reatha Gordon Resnik Kennedy, longtime resident of Dallas before moving to Tyler, Texas, in 2006 to be close to family, passed away on May 5, 2013, surrounded by friends and family in Tyler. Reatha is survived by her husband Edwin Kennedy of Tyler; daughters Linda Resnik of Tyler and Susan Resnik of Quitman, Texas; son Neil Resnik and daughter-in-law Eileen of Addison; and grandson Chad Resnik and his wife Lauren of Hillsborough, North Carolina. Born in New York City on March 25, 1923, Reatha was predeceased by her parents Goldie and Arthur Gordon; her first husband Harold Resnik; and her sister Evelyn Lader. In 1949, Reatha and Harold left New York City for Dallas, where Harold began an entrepreneurial career that culminated with the creation of Southwest Toys and Sporting Goods, Inc. Reatha stayed home to raise the couple's three young children while assisting Harold in his businesses. As the children entered Dallas public schools, Reatha was a visible presence in her children's school activities and also became an active participant in many community organizations, devoting much time to Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood and Jewish Women International, among others. She also lovingly cared for her aging parents and in-laws. After moving to Tyler, Reatha continued her interest in community activities by working with a number of local organizations, including the League of Women Voters of Tyler/Smith County. Her infectious enthusiasm for life was quickly noted by Ed Kennedy, a neighbor in her retirement apartment building. Following a relatively brief courtship between the two, Reatha and Ed were married, after which the couple shared more than four years of life, travel and civic engagement. Reatha's life will be celebrated in a graveside service conducted by Rabbi Debra Robbins on Wednesday, May 8, 2013, 2:00 p.m., at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 7405 West Northwest Highway, Dallas, under the direction of Cottle Funeral Home, Troup. If desired, memorials may be made to the Clergy Good Works Fund, c/o Temple Emanu-El, 8500 Hillcrest Road, Dallas, TX 75225, or Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas.