Sopo Kennedy

With profound sadness, yet also with a celebration of a life lived with resilience and love, we announce the passing of Sopo Kennedy, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, dear brother, and loyal friend. Sopo departed this life on Monday, February 10, 2025, leaving a legacy of unwavering spirit, deep connection to family, and an appreciation for the simple joys in life.

Born in Liberia on March 23, 1982, to James Zayzay Kennedy and Sonnie Boi Kennedy, Sopo's early life was rooted in the rich culture and natural beauty of Lofa County, Liberia. He was a cherished brother to James Saywala Kennedy, Kaibeh Kennedy Menyon, and numerous other paternal siblings, forming bonds that would remain strong throughout his life. His educational journey began at David Selma Town Public School in Lofa County, Liberia, where he first nurtured a lifelong love of learning and developed a deep connection to the natural world. This passion led him to pursue and earn a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of Liberia, a testament to his commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sopo’s professional life in Liberia began with the Traffic Union, where he quickly earned the respect and friendship of his colleagues. He later transitioned to the cement industry, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to providing for his family. He worked diligently as a universal agent for James Saywala Kennedy (JASK) Contractor Agency, representing CemenCo, a cement manufacturing company. These experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of hard work.

Family was the cornerstone of Sopo's life. He married Beatrice Kennedy, and together they created a loving home for their two sons, Adonis Akoi Kennedy and James Kennedy. Sopo was a devoted father, finding immense joy in the company of his children. He cherished playful moments, like the time his young son James, after visiting his Uncle Saywala, confidently declared his desire to drive them all home. Sopo's gentle and humorous response, "Ok, let us get home, and after I get out of the car, you can take it to wherever you want to go," beautifully illustrates his warmth, patience, and playful spirit. He instilled in his sons the values of family, respect, and the importance of finding joy in everyday moments.

Sopo immigrated to the United States, seeking new opportunities and a better future for his family. He resided here for the last ten years, embracing the challenges and rewards of building a new life. His journey, however, was marked by significant adversity. In 2018, a devastating car accident en route to Minnesota left him with severe injuries, including a coma lasting 21 days at North Memorial Hospital. Despite undergoing brain surgery in October 2018 and facing a long and difficult recovery, Sopo’s resilience shone through. He faced further hardships, including subsequent car accidents, yet his spirit remained unbroken. These experiences tested his strength, but they also revealed the depth of his character and his unwavering determination.

He worked diligently at the Vocational Training Center in Fargo as a custodian for two years, and later took on positions at Sam's Club and Ameriprise Financial Investment through a temporary agency. Sopo approached his work with dedication and pride, committed to providing for his family and building a stable life in his new country.

Despite life's challenges, Sopo never lost his love for the simple pleasures. He was a passionate soccer fan, especially of Barcelona and Lionel Messi, finding joy in the beautiful game. He also enjoyed volleyball and found solace and peace in long drives through the woods, reconnecting with the natural world he so deeply appreciated. These passions provided him with moments of respite and allowed him to recharge his spirit.

Sopo’s life, though marked by struggle, was ultimately a testament to love, joy, and unwavering perseverance. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Beatrice Kennedy; his sons, Adonis Akoi Kennedy and James Kennedy; his brother, James Saywala Kennedy; his sister, Kaibeh Kennedy Menyon; and a host of other paternal brothers and sisters, extended family, and a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and warmth.

His memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him. May Sopo rest in eternal peace, free from pain and suffering, and may his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to us all. He will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be from 8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M., followed by the funeral service at 9:00 A.M., Friday, February 21, 2025, at Wright Funeral Home, Moorhead, MN. A graveside service will be held at Moorhead Memorial Gardens, Moorhead, MN, following the service at the funeral home. A livestream of Sopo's service will be available here on his wegpage.