Zebulun "Zeb" William Kennedy
8/6/1985 - 5/19/2024

Zeb was an "odd kid" from the beginning and weird in all the best ways! He loved video games, game shows, cartoons, frisbee golf, cooking, movies, game night tournaments, and tons of other nerdy things he loved talking about with his friends like Doctor Who, Lord of the Rings, Marvel Universe, Dune, and many more. In addition to feeding the neighborhood cats, his family often described him as part dog, due to his love of dogs and their immediate love of him.

Zeb was also known for his love of a graphic t-shirt, each expressing his fandoms and quirky sense of humor. You would always find Zeb in a graphic t-shirt, even if it was a base layer under a button up, sweatshirt, or his Chef's coat.

Over the years, Zeb worked at many restaurants around Springfield as a chef and cook. He never wanted attention or recognition for his food or leadership in the kitchens, but patrons and co-workers alike all would talk about how much they loved him. Zeb took pride in his work, and his family bragged about where you could go eat his food. Most recently Zeb was working at J.O.B. Public House downtown. He was so excited to be part of re-opening a beloved Springfield restaurant and share it with family and friends.

Zeb's circle of close friends was small, but the ripple of his life was wide, and he was known among many different circles of people. He regularly had game nights competing for a championship belt that Zeb bragged about and strutted through the house when he won. He was incredibly witty and made everyone around him laugh, telling jokes and doing impressions. Zeb had a quiet but strong steadiness and showed up for his people without any need for recognition. He loved Cleveland sports and Ohio State football and will be missed for the annual game with "the team up north."

Zeb died from complications related to liver failure. There is a lot the family doesn't know surrounding the exact circumstances, but there are a few things we would like to share. Zeb struggled with anxiety, depression, and alcohol. He was surrounded by people who loved him dearly, but ultimately, he was unable to find healing and peace during his life. Zeb is now in complete peace and will never be in pain again.

Zeb is survived by his parents Bill Kennedy of Cleveland, OH and Sue Kennedy of Springfield, MO and his three favorite sisters, Abi Kennedy of Springfield, MO, Keturah Kennedy of Cleveland, OH, and Anna Kennedy and her 2 dogs Magnolia and Cedar that loved their "Uncle Brother" of Tulsa, OK.

The family appreciates all of the love and support they have received from their community. For people wishing to honor Zeb's memory, the family will be making a donation in Zeb's honor to Castaway Animals Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) and donations can be sent to Keturah Kennedy through Venmo @Keturah-Kennedy or made directly to C.A.R.E. here.

Link: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZYPUBRW5DMA8W&ssrt=1716246877251