Leading with Kindness, Remembered with Love
In honor of the Masons’ 200th Anniversary, we are proud to recognize the life and service of William “Bill” Kennedy, a dedicated Mason, Eastern Star leader, and friend to many.
Bill joined Lola Valley Lodge in the 1990s and quickly became an active and valued member of the fraternity. His commitment to Masonry and its principles of brotherhood, service, and fellowship led him to serve as Worshipful Master of his Lodge in 2010. In February 2014, he was honored as Mason of the Year, a reflection of the respect and admiration he earned from his fellow members. Later that year, when Lola Valley Lodge sold its building, Bill transferred his membership to Livonia-United Lodge No. 152. There, he continued his dedicated service and was once again recognized as Mason of the Year, a rare testament to the impact he made wherever he went.
Not long after becoming a Mason—jokingly saying he joined “to find girls to date”—Bill became involved with Kindness Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, which met in the same building as Lola Valley Lodge. It was through Eastern Star that he met his future wife, Dottie, during a trip to Flat Rock. The two happened to be riding together in the back seat of his Matron’s SUV, beginning a relationship that would grow into a lasting partnership.
Bill’s devotion to Eastern Star was every bit as strong as his dedication to Masonry. He served as Worthy Patron or Associate Patron nearly every year of his membership and became widely respected throughout the organization. In October 2004, he attended his first Order of the Eastern Star Grand Chapter and was so inspired by the experience that he decided to seek a leadership role. He was elected Grand Sentinel in 2009 and ultimately served as Worthy Grand Patron for the 2012–2013 term.
His leadership extended beyond the Chapter level. Bill also served as an officer in two study groups in the Metro Detroit area and held the position of Vice President, the highest male office at the county level, every five years from the time he joined the Order until his passing.
Known for his warm smile, welcoming nature, and genuine kindness, Bill had a remarkable ability to make others feel valued and included. His friendly disposition earned him friendships throughout both the Masonic fraternity and the Order of the Eastern Star. He touched countless lives through his service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the organizations he loved.
Bill is remembered with great affection and gratitude by all who knew him. His legacy of friendship, dedication, and service continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps, and he is deeply missed by his Masonic and Eastern Star families.
Submitted by: Dottie Kennedy