LaVaughn Major Kennedy, 68, of Lake Forest died Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014, at Kindred Transitional Care-Nansemond Pointe.

“Butch” as he was affectionately known to his friends and family was born May 19, 1946, in Brooklyn, N.Y.,and was the son of Eleanor and Major Kennedy. He attended Wingate High School and served proudly in the military as an Army SP4 and was awarded with a National Defense Service Medal.

LaVaughn married the love of his life, Margaret Vernel Kennedy, in 1972 and from that union of marriage they brought up their daughter, Stacey Kennedy. He dedicated 26 years to working as a Signal Maintainer for the New York City Transit Authority.

Upon his retirement he was ceremonially awarded a medal of appreciation for his unyielding and dedicated service to the city.

As an early retiree, LaVaughn relocated with his wife to her hometown of Suffolk in 1999, where they became entrepreneurs and opened a small neighborhood convenience store with southern charm, 3Ks Pantry.

A viewing will be held Monday, Dec. 29, from noon to 8 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2014, at New Mt. Joy Food for Living Ministries. Bishop Charlie Collins will deliver the eulogy, and Overseer Viola Parker is pastor. Interment will be at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.

Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.