Andraius Ramon Kennedy

December 7, 1977, was a day full of joy and happiness when Andraius Ramon Kennedy “Dre” was born to the parentage of Ezell Rosbourough and Debra Kennedy-Reliford. Raised by his grandmother Annie Hart, who instilled in him the importance of going to church, Dre became a faithful member at Saint Paul Baptist Church where he gave his life to Christ at an early age. During his time at Saint Paul Baptist Church, you might have been greeted by Dre’s smiling face ushering at the door or his glorious voice leading a song in the choir as he served in various positions.

He attended school in the Longview Independent School District where he quickly gained the reputation for his alluring style and being a dapper young man. With his integrity, and unwavering determination, he gained his independence at a very young age and obtained his first job at 15 years old at Panchos Mexican restaurant. There he was known for wearing a big smile and being so kind and polite to all his customers.  He would often brag about the enormous number of tips he received. He would later go on to graduate from Longview High School in 1996 with honors in academic excellence. After high school, he briefly worked for Trinity Industries, but his passion for culinary arts and his love for helping others eventually led him to Good Shepherd Medical Center's culinary department where he devoted 24 years of unwavering service. He was known by many on every floor of the hospital for his vivacious personality and contagious laughter. Throughout his illustrious career, Dre received numerous awards including but not limited to Excellence in Service, Customer Satisfaction, and Outstanding Performance. Dre was dedicated to Good Shepherd Medical Center and entrusted himself to the professionals there to care for him until he peacefully transitioned on October 11, 2024.

Beyond his career achievements, Dre was a devoted family man to his adopted son Gavin Bradley, his biological family and also to his work family. He was so full of genuine love and light; he loved everyone with a rare form of pure love. From family gatherings that ended up with him showing off his dance moves, to phone conversations where he laughed and carried on for hours, Dre truly loved his family and friends and when he saw you, he wasn’t afraid to tell you, whether it was complimenting your beautiful hair, your nice outfit, or your delicious cooking.  He was always smiling and reminding you that around him, you were always in for a good time full of genuine love and laughter. His compassion and personality touched the lives of countless individuals leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. Dre will be remembered for his kindness, compassion and his profound love for life.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Angrus C Kennedy and Annie Ruth Hart; his father, Ezell Rosborough; his brother, Richard Lee McGowan Jr.; and his uncle, Larry Hart.

Those left to cherish his memories are his mother, Debra Reliford; son, Gavin Bradley; brothers, Devadius Kennedy and Michael T. Thompson; sister, Melissa Thompson-McGowan; nephews, DeAndrea and Devonte Kennedy; devoted cousins, Jimmillia and Shirlethea Nelson, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

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