On June 10, 2026, God gently called home His faithful servant, Gertrude “Peaches” Handley Kennedy, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, educator, aunt and friend. At the age of 76, she departed this early life, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, perseverance and unconditional love.

Gertrude was born in Birmingham, Alabama, to hardworking and devoted parents who raised their family during the 1950s with strength, dignity and unwavering faith. She was the sixth of eight children born to: father, Henry Handley who worked tirelessly to provide for and care for his children; and a strong-willed, nurturing mother, Susie B. Parker whose love and guidance shaped the family for generations. Gertrude accepted our Lord Jesus Christ as a youth. She was a member of Miller Memorial Presbyterian Church, in Birmingham, from childhood.

Affectionately known as “Peaches,” Gertrude was a true bookworm from an early age. While many of her siblings could be found outdoors playing, she was often found indoors with her nose buried in a book or focused on her studies. Her love of learning became one of her defining characteristics throughout her life. As both a little sister and a big sister, she admired and looked up to her older siblings while lovingly helping guide and encourage her younger sisters.

Her passion for education led her to pursue higher learning at Mills College in Birmingham, Alabama where she studied education. Determined to continue growing both personally and professionally, she later earned her master’s degree in elementary education from Texas A&M University. Her commitment to learning was matched only by her commitment to teaching others.

Along life’s journey, Gertrude found love and married Samuel Kennedy. Their union was blessed with the birth of their son, Marcus Kennedy, and years later her beautiful daughter, Marcy Kennedy. As a devoted mother, Gertrude worked tirelessly to ensure her children received every educational opportunity possible. She believed deeply in the power of education and instilled those same values in her family.

For decades, Gerturde dedicated her life to educating young minds as a teacher in North Forest Independent School District in Houston, Texas. Throughout her career, she touched the lives of hundreds of students, colleagues, parents and community members. Her classroom was a place of learning, encouragement, creativity and high expectations. She understood that teaching was not merely a profession but a calling.

In 2004, Gertrude experienced one of life’s greatest sorrows when she prematurely laid her beloved son, Marcus, to rest. Though her grief remained, so did her strength, grace and enduring love for her family.

In her later years, Gerturde found peace and comfort surrounded by those she loved most. She spent her final years in Lansing, Michigan, sharing a home filled with laughter, memories and companionship with her younger sisters, RoseMarie Handley and Tommie Handley along with her devoted daughter, Marcy.

Those who knew Peaches will remember her intelligence, quiet strength, dedication to family and lifelong love of reading and learning. Her wisdom was a gift to all who crossed her path, and her influence will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched.

Gertrude leaves to cherish her memory: her loving daughter, Marcy Kennedy; her beloved sisters, Dorothy Wilks, Delphine Davis, RoseMarie Handley and Tommie Handley; her pride and joy grandson, Jacoby Kennedy; along a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, former students, colleagues and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by: her loving parents, Henry Handley and Susie Handley; her beloved son, Marcus Kenndy; her dear sisters, Brenda Joyce Handley and Mrytle Lee Handley Williams; her brother, Henry Handley, Jr.; and other loved ones who welcomed her into eternal rest.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing that her life’s work is complete and her reward is great. The lessons she taught, the love she shared and the legacy she leaves behind will continue to inspire generations to come.

Well-done, thy good and faithful servant.