Dolores "DeeDee" M. Kennedy

Dolores M. Kennedy, affectionately known as “DeeDee,” passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday, November 29, 2025, in Topeka.

DeeDee was born the daughter of James “Jim” and Sally (Dohrman) Simecka on April 17, 1951, in Wamego, KS. She was raised in a big loving farm family outside of Delia, KS. On January 24, 1976, she married her beloved sweetheart, Steven “Steve” L. Kennedy. Together, they shared almost 50 years of marriage.

DeeDee’s working career included numerous years working as the office manager, bookkeeper and waitress for Por’e Richards in Topeka. Her greatest job that brought her the greatest joy was being her grandchildren’s babysitter. In her down time, she enjoyed gardening, cheering for KU basketball, and taking day trips with Steve. Raising her two children, babysitting her grandchildren and spending time with family and friends was the core to DeeDee’s happiness. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her beloved husband, Steve Kennedy; daughter, Jessica Kennedy; son, Lucas Kennedy and his wife, Heather; four grandchildren, Austin, Alyssa, Kylie, and Knox. Other survivors include her six siblings, Mary, Jerry, Judy, Barbara, Pat, and Ginger.

DeeDee was preceded in death by her parents; and three siblings, Eddy, Jimmy, and Joann “Jo.”

A rosary will be prayed at 10:30 A.M., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial being celebrated at 11:00 A.M., on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Mater Dei Holy Name Catholic Church.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.