Dennis Kennedy

In Loving Memory of Father Dennis Kennedy September 27 1946 to September 7 2026

Dennis O’Neill Michael Christopher Kennedy, beloved priest, husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, scholar, teacher, champion for the poor and proud Irishman completed his earthly pilgrimage and passed into eternal peace, surrounded by the grace and faith that guided his life.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, to parents who instilled in him a lifelong commitment to fairness, human dignity and beauty, Dennis was the eldest of five children. His spiritual journey began early at age 13. After attending St. Vincent’s College, minor seminary, novitiate & theology formation Dennis went on to earn a Master of Divinity from De Andreis Seminary, a Master’s in Liturgical Studies from the University of Notre Dame, and a Doctorate in Ministry from The Catholic University of America. Ordained a Vincentian priest in 1973, Dennis served for over 20 years as a pastor, professor, and scholar—teaching at Kenrick Seminary, De Andreis Seminary, DePaul University, and St. Thomas Seminary in Denver.

Guided by the radical, enlivening social teachings of Jesus, Dennis was a true "pinch preacher" of the Gospel who put his body where his mouth was—whether witnessing for peace in Central America, marching through downtown streets on Good Friday, or advocating alongside non-profits in child protection, healthcare, and homelessness. He found God in every sanctuary: from the high halls of academia to the vulnerable, beautiful lives of veterans, peacemakers, abused children, working families, and those living on the margins.

In the second half of his life's path, Dennis married, becoming a devoted husband of 33 years and a proud, loving father to his stepdaughter and granddaughter. In 2016 Dennis was received as a priest into the Episcopalian Fellowship of Communion serving St. Barnabas (Denver) & St. Stephen’s (Longmont) parishes.

He spent his later years as a porch pastor, spiritual guide, poet, writer, and non-profit executive, building "cathedrals of compassion" wherever he walked. He enjoyed jazz, art, poetry, a great book, rich conversation-especially with the mens’ zoom group, travel, and the poetry of athletic games. A man easily and deeply moved, Dennis carried a heart open to all spiritual paths, holding deep reverence for the wisdom of Quakers, Judaism, Buddhism, and the quiet sanctity found in everyday humanity. “I see myself as an evangelist... I bring Good News from the way of Jesus, from all sorts of people and traditions. What can we do together?” Dennis' sermons were legendary with his sensitivity and humility reflected in the very human and heartfelt messages. His Irish wit and charm are remembered by many.

Dennis is survived by his wife and stepdaughter, granddaughter, his siblings, extended family, and the countless souls he mentored, comforted, and inspired. He is preceded in death by his cherished parents and brother.

A celebration of Dennis’s life and legacy will be held at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 1303 S Bross Lane Longmont 80501 on Saturday September 26 at 10:00.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Thomas, Mark and AJ from Always Best Care, Luna Physical Therapist Katie, and TRU Community Care for their gentle care, compassion and expertise. And to St. Stephen’s especially Father Mike, Janet, Joe and members of the book club, Hal and Phil and the wise guys for their welcoming spirit and inclusivity.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dennis’s honor to The Conflict Center, PBS and Project PAVE.

Thanks to Larson, Karen and Kemp

Always we begin again From the Rule of St. Benedict