A tragic start to the New Year unfolded in New Orleans as the city mourns the loss of Terrence Kennedy, a 63-year-old native who was among the victims of the horrific terror attack on Bourbon Street. The attack, which shocked the vibrant French Quarter community, has left residents grieving and grappling with the devastating loss of a man affectionately known as “Terry.”
Remembering Terrence Kennedy
Terrence Kennedy was born and raised in New Orleans, the seventh of nine children in the loving family of Dolores and James Kennedy. Known for his kind spirit and his enormous heart, Terry was a well-loved figure in the city, which he called home his entire life. His sister, Lorraine Kennedy, shared fond memories of her brother, describing him as a man whose generosity and warmth touched everyone he met.
“Terry was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back,” Lorraine said in an emotional interview. “He was always there for his family, friends, and neighbors. He loved New Orleans with all his heart, and it breaks ours to know he’s gone.”
Terry’s family recalls his deep connection to the city’s culture and traditions. He was an avid fan of the New Orleans Saints, a regular at local jazz clubs, and a proud participant in the annual Mardi Gras celebrations.
“He loved everything about this city — the food, the music, the people,” said his younger brother, James Kennedy Jr. “New Orleans was his soul, and he brought its spirit with him wherever he went.”
A Night Turned Tragic
Terrence Kennedy had been on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Eve, celebrating the arrival of 2025 with friends and family. Known for his vibrant personality, Terry had been enjoying the festivities in one of the city’s most iconic locations. The streets were bustling with revelers, live music echoed through the air, and the energy was as lively as ever.
But the joy turned to terror in the early hours of January 1 when an explosion ripped through a section of Bourbon Street near Toulouse Street. Witnesses reported chaos and confusion as screams drowned out the music, and people scrambled for safety.
According to authorities, the attack involved a series of coordinated explosions, followed by a mass shooting that targeted unsuspecting civilians. The event, which has been labeled a domestic terror attack, claimed the lives of at least 11 people and left dozens more injured. Terrence Kennedy was among those who tragically lost their lives in the violence.
A Family’s Grief
The Kennedy family learned of Terry’s death later that morning after hours of uncertainty and unanswered calls. When the confirmation came, it brought unimaginable pain to a family already devastated by the senseless attack.
Lorraine Kennedy, who had spoken to her brother earlier that evening, recalled their last conversation. “He was so happy,” she said. “He told me how beautiful the night was and how much he was looking forward to the new year. I never imagined it would be the last time I’d hear his voice.”
The family gathered at their mother Dolores’s home to console one another and share memories of Terry. Photos of him laughing, dancing, and celebrating life were passed around as tears flowed freely.
“It’s hard to believe he’s gone,” said his niece, Carla Kennedy. “Uncle Terry was larger than life. He was the glue that held our family together, and now there’s this huge void that can never be filled.”
A Life of Kindness and Service
Beyond his role as a beloved family member, Terry Kennedy was known for his unwavering kindness and dedication to helping others. A retired carpenter, he often volunteered his time to assist with community projects and repairs for neighbors in need.
“He built more than just homes; he built relationships,” said longtime friend and neighbor Richard Thompson. “Terry was the guy you could always count on. He never asked for anything in return — he just wanted to help.”
Terry was also deeply involved in his local church, where he served as a mentor to at-risk youth. He believed in the power of community and often spoke about the importance of giving back to the city that had given him so much.
“Uncle Terry taught me to always look out for others,” said his nephew Marcus Kennedy. “He’d say, ‘It doesn’t cost anything to be kind.’ That’s the kind of man he was.”
The Impact of the Bourbon Street Attack
The terror attack on Bourbon Street has left New Orleans reeling. Known for its resilience in the face of adversity, the city is no stranger to challenges, but this senseless act of violence has struck a deep chord.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell addressed the city in a press conference, expressing her sorrow and condemning the attack. “This is a dark day for New Orleans,” she said. “We mourn the lives lost, including that of Terrence Kennedy, a son of this city who embodied its spirit of generosity and joy. We will not let this act of terror define us.”
The New Orleans Police Department and federal authorities are actively investigating the attack, with several suspects already in custody. While details remain under wraps, officials have assured the public that every effort is being made to bring those responsible to justice.
A Community in Mourning
As news of Terry’s death spread, tributes poured in from friends, neighbors, and even strangers who had been touched by his story. Social media was flooded with messages of love and condolences for the Kennedy family.
A vigil was held on January 2 at Jackson Square, where hundreds gathered to honor Terry and the other victims of the attack. Candles illuminated the night as the crowd sang hymns and shared stories of those lost.
“Terry was one of the best men I ever knew,” said fellow church member Patricia Johnson. “He made this world a better place, and we’re all poorer without him.”
Celebrating Terry’s Life
The Kennedy family has announced plans for a memorial service to celebrate Terry’s life. The service will be held at St. Augustine Catholic Church in the Tremé neighborhood, a historic parish that holds deep significance for the family.
“We want to remember Terry for the incredible man he was,” said Lorraine Kennedy. “This is not just a time to mourn but to celebrate the life he lived and the love he gave.”
The family has also established a scholarship fund in Terry’s name to support local students pursuing careers in carpentry and the trades — a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life building both structures and connections.
A Call for Unity
In the wake of this tragedy, the Kennedy family and the New Orleans community have called for unity and resilience.
“This city has been through so much, but we always find a way to rise above,” said James Kennedy Jr. “Terry would want us to come together, to support one another, and to keep living with love in our hearts.”
Conclusion
Terrence Kennedy’s death is a profound loss for his family, friends, and the city of New Orleans. As the community continues to heal from this senseless act of violence, Terry’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will endure.
In a city known for its vibrant culture and indomitable spirit, Terry’s memory will forever be a reminder of what it means to truly embody the heart of New Orleans.
