Ex-Belleville Councilman Kevin Kennedy Dies: ‘Worked Tirelessly’

BELLEVILLE, NJ — A longtime former councilman in Belleville passed away last week after a brief illness: Kevin Kennedy.

Kennedy died on Feb. 12. A celebration of his life will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 29 at The Chandelier, 340 Franklin Avenue in Belleville, according to his obituary. (Learn more)

“Kevin was dedicated to the well-being of the citizens of Belleville and worked tirelessly to that end,” his obituary states.

His accomplishments included:

• Served as councilman for the 3rd Ward and at large for 20 years
• Served as deputy mayor
• Served as a member of the Belleville Planning Board, Belleville Historical Commission, Belleville Historic Society and the Second River Joint Meeting
• Was integral in organizing many street naming dedications to honor Belleville soldiers Killed in Action
• Retired as a toll collector for the Garden State Parkway

However, many in Belleville will miss Kennedy for his many “wonderful acts of kindness,” his obituary states.

“Kevin’s greatest and proudest accomplishment occurred in 1983 with the creation of the ‘Kevin G. Kennedy Civic Association.’ As part of his Civic Association he was responsible for granting scholarships each year to college bound Belleville High School seniors as well as honoring deserving citizens with Humanitarian of the Year awards. But Kevin was happiest conducting his Toys for Tots toy drives, making sure many township children got a ‘visit’ from Santa and had toys to open on Christmas. Another great part of his association was the distribution of food to families in need during the holidays.”

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