Kenneth C. Jarrell

Kenneth Charles Jarrell, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025, at the age of 77 in Bensalem, PA.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, on September 12, 1947, to Charles and Winifred Jarrell, Kenneth lived a life rooted in love, faith, and dedication to his family. He was educated in the New York City Public School system, earning his diploma from Erasmus Hall High School before attending North Carolina A&T University, an HBCU in Greensboro, NC. After a brief time in North Carolina, he returned to Brooklyn, where he met the love of his life, Edythe—affectionately known as Edy Mae. They married in 1974 and spent a lifetime building a home filled with love, laughter, and music. Their bond was unbreakable, and though Edythe passed in 2021, their love story continues in the hearts of those who knew them.

Kenneth had a successful career as a Correctional Officer at Rikers Island, where he served with dedication for over 20 years. His work demanded strength and resilience, but he carried himself with integrity and a quiet wisdom that earned him the respect of both colleagues and those in his care.

Beyond his career, Kenneth and Edythe shared a deep love for music, spirituality, and good times with family and friends. He had a passion for what he lovingly called "brown liquor music"—a soundtrack of soul and rhythm that filled his home and heart. His absolute favorite entertainer of all time was James Brown, but his love for music also included the legendary sounds of Otis Redding and The Temptations. In fact, Kenneth proudly considered himself the unofficial sixth member of the iconic group, always ready to sing along or showcase his smooth moves when the moment called for it.

Kenneth was always surrounded by family, love, and laughter. He and Edythe lovingly raised seven children: Gregory David, Kenneth Ashton Jr. (Najee), who preceded them both in death in 1990, Roslyn Nicole, Jason Anthony, Jacqueline Rene, Joshua Elijah, and Khadijah Devah. Kenneth’s heart and home were always open, extending his love and guidance to his “bonus children” and extended family, including Talib Muhamed aka Tony, the Hutto sisters NeNe and Dang, nieces Kapri Sistrunk and Chrisette Mignott, and nephews Shabar, Derrick, and Marselle Jarrell. At any given time, they could be found in his home, joining in on family vacations, or making cherished memories at the many gatherings he and Edythe hosted. Summers were never complete without trips to Heckscher State Park, where barbecues, laughter, and swimming were traditions that brought everyone together.

Kenneth was also a brother, and had 10 siblings: David, Hasan (who preceded him in death), Charlotte, Joseph (preceded in death), Phillip (preceded in death), Steven (preceded in death), Carl, Patricia, Richard, and Thomas. The bond they shared was filled with love, stories, and countless unforgettable moments.

Above all, Kenneth loved being a Pop-Pop. He leaves behind a legacy of strong, conscious grandchildren who will carry on his sometimes militant, no-nonsense views: Sade, Adasia, Justin Jr. (Vannie), Ian, Jujuan, Iyanna (Ani), Joslyn, Rita, Brielle (with whom he shared a special bond), Ivan, Jaelynn, Mia, Brooklynn, Jace, and Bryson. His love extended to his nine great-grandchildren: Aniya, King, Amil, Aria, Anyla, Ariel, Amora, Adonis, and Power.

Kenneth also shared a very special bond with his cousin Louis King of Flint, Michigan, and was deeply heartbroken by his passing. Additionally, he had a lifelong friendship of over 30 years with his dear friend, known to his family simply as "Richardson." Though they met as co-workers, their bond grew into a brotherhood—one built on loyalty, laughter, and mutual respect.

One saying that will forever be embedded in the memories of his children and grandchildren is "SCHOOOOOL TOMOOOOORROOOOOW!!!"—a phrase that can still be heard and echoed through the hearts of all who loved him.

"We're really gonna miss you, our buuuuddy..."

Though he is no longer physically with us, Kenneth’s love, laughter, guiding presence and outrageous humor will remain forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

LOVINGLY SUBMITTED , THE FAMILY

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