Jackson Daniel Kennedy

Jackson Daniel Kennedy, lovingly known throughout Monticello as “Big Red,” was 18 years old when he passed away on October 11, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held 2 – 7 P.M. on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa. Jackson’s Celebration of Life will be open to the public, and all his friends are welcome. Family and friends are invited to come together, remember Jackson, share memories and say their final goodbyes. The family has also asked visitors to wear red in memory of Jackson “Big Red.”

Jackson had a big personality and an even bigger heart. He showed up for others, stood up for what he believed in, and cared deeply about people. He was a strong advocate for his own rights and the rights of others, and his presence made an impression on those around him.

Jackson loved riding motorcycles with his dad, spending time with friends and family, traveling, and camping. He dearly loved his dogs, Kobo and Speedy, and proudly cheered for the Kansas City Chiefs. Bowling, however, was definitely not his thing! Jackson was inspired by Officer Johnny Norwood of the Monticello Police Department.

Family was important to Jackson. He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Jeffrey Kennedy and Jessica Kennedy; his siblings, Nina Elliot, Cody Elliot, Jillian Kennedy (Alec), Justin Kennedy, Hunter Kirkpatrick (Jordan Weber), Jenna Kirkpatrick, Ian and Owen Kennedy; and his nephews, Jeffrey and Jayden. He is also survived by his paternal grandfather, John Kennedy (Kathy); maternal grandparents, Jennifer Bolsinger and Mark Cahill; uncles, Randy Gibson and Spencer Davis; aunt Sandra Cahill (Matt Paar); and cousins, Krystina Cahill, Randy Gibson, Elizabeth Gibson, Jacob Gibson, and Daisy Cahill.

Jackson also leaves behind his best friends, Braxton, Keegan, Karson, Gavin, Kalvin, Nelly, Taye, Lewis, and Tanya Estrefi, along with his honorary sisters, Elia and Kaydence (Jordan).

He was preceded in death by Alex Gibson.

The Kennedy family extends heartfelt thanks to the Monticello community for the love, kindness, and support shown to Jackson and our family during this heartbreaking time. Every message, kind gesture and memory shared has meant more than words can express. We are grateful to everyone who has stood beside us.

Forever 18. Forever our Big Red. Forever loved and never forgotten.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.