Well done, thou good and faithful servant…" – Matthew 25:23

Reverend Everett Lee McKennedy, affectionately known by many as "Chico," was a faithful servant of the Lord whose life was marked by compassion, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Born on January 13, 1976, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, he was the beloved son of Teresa Kay Byrd McKennedy and Willie Lee McKennedy.

He received his formal education through the Spartanburg County School System and was a proud 1994 graduate of Spartanburg High School. With a heart set on higher learning and spiritual enrichment, Reverend McKennedy continued his academic journey at Liberty University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Religion a fitting foundation for a man destined to proclaim the Word of God.

A licensed and ordained minister of the gospel, Reverend McKennedy lived his life as a vessel of purpose and a messenger of hope. His preaching was powerful, his presence uplifting, and his passion for souls unrelenting. He served faithfully as an associate minister of Word of Change Ministries and was the visionary founder of From Boys to Men Ministry, a life-changing mentoring initiative devoted to the growth and development of young men. His conversations, counseling, and very loving character consistently pointed others toward Christ and His divine purpose for their lives.

Reverend McKennedy was the embodiment of servant leadership always encouraging, always present, always faithful. He was known for his vibrant spirit, generous heart, and deep love for people.; whether he was mentoring youth, ministering from the pulpit, simply listening to gospel music or cheering on his favorite team, the Carolina Panthers. His life radiated joy, strength, and dedication. He was partial to the colors were blue and black. As a skilled Dominoologist, he was a master of the game, known for both his competitive edge and good-humored camaraderie.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Everett Byrd, whose name he bore with honor and pride.

He leaves to cherish his legacy, love, and spiritual mantle to his devoted wife, Jessica Benson McKennedy of Spartanburg, SC; parents, Teresa and Willie McKennedy of Spartanburg, SC;  beloved grandmother, Mother Alma Byrd of the home;  sons, Tyquez McKennedy, Austin Davis, Cameron (Haley) McKennedy, and Keyshawn McKennedy, all of Spartanburg, SC;  daughters, Tykeyia McKennedy and Aliah McKennedy, both of Spartanburg, SC;  brothers Evan (Melody) McKennedy and Elton McKennedy, both of Spartanburg, SC;  sisters, Kashannon Jones and Erica (James) Rhodes, also of Spartanburg, SC;  cherished grandchildren: Kamora McKennedy, Ji'Rhea McKennedy, Me'Yaniah Olley, Princeton McKennedy, Amarie McKennedy, and A'laura McClain; the members and mentees of the From Boys to Men Ministry; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

On Friday, May 23, 2025, Reverend McKennedy peacefully transitioned from labor to reward at the Spartanburg Medical Center, surrounded by the love and prayers of those who cherished him. Though his voice is now silent on this side of glory, the echoes of his sermons, the reach of his ministry, and the love he poured into so many will resound for generations. A life well lived. A servant well loved. A crown well earned. Reverend Everett Lee McKennedy's legacy is not just one of ministry it is a legacy of impact, inspiration, and Kingdom excellence. His journey may have ended here, but his influence is eternal.