J. D. Kennedy, 84, of Quitman died Monday, January 25, 2010, at Southridge Nursing and Rehab, in Heber Springs.  He was born August 9, 1925, in Fairbanks, a son of the late Jasper and Annie (Pierce) Kennedy.  He was also preceded in death by his wife, Bernice (Sneed) Kennedy, who died August 20, 1985.
Mr. Kennedy was retired after serving 10 years as Cleburne County Judge.  Many people affectionately called him “The Judge” throughout his term and even now; and his family remembers how he liked the title. Prior to serving as County Judge, he operated a road grader for the county.  In earlier years, he was a mechanic and had owned his own garage in Quitman.  A Navy veteran, he was a member of the Fairbanks VFW; and was a Mason, holding lifetime membership in the Quitman/Holland Lodge.
He was a Christian, and was a member of Fairbanks Community Church, and served on the Church and Cemetery Board.
Survivors are his children, James E. Kennedy and wife, Gerita; and May Dean Strain, all of Quitman; brothers, Doyle and Randall Kennedy both of Quitman; Wendell Kennedy of Conway; grandchildren, Sheila Hall and husband, Jeff; Jason Strain and wife, Terrie; Jay Strain and wife, Stephanie; great-grandsons, Daniel and Cody Strain; and a number of nephews and nieces.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. January 27 at the Fairbanks Community Church, with Joe Kennedy officiating.  Burial will follow in Fairbanks Cemetery, under the direction of Roller-McNutt Funeral Home of Greenbrier. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.