Howard W. "Hardrock" Kennedy

Howard W. “Hardrock” Kennedy, 86, of New Castle, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Henry Community Health. Howard was born September 15, 1939, in New Castle, Indiana, the son of the late Freda (Gordon) Prater.

Howard proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1956 to 1962, traveling and being stationed around the world during his years of service. Following his military service, he dedicated many years of hard work to the United States Postal Service, beginning his career in 1985 and retiring in 2001.

A man of many talents and hobbies, Howard enjoyed lettering signs, painting pictures, photography, knife making, leatherwork, and the simple pleasures of retirement.

He is survived by his daughter, Sonya Kennedy; adoptive daughter, Joann (Darrin) Slaughter brother, John W. (Gerladine) Kennedy; grandchildren, David (Mary) Deal Jr., Amber Nicole (Cory) Crowe; great-grandchildren, Destiny (Jacob) Hamilton, Aley and Abbey Parrish, and Loretta Deal; great-great-grandchildren Athena and Jackson Hamilton; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his mother, Howard was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta R. (Smith) Kennedy; stepbrothers, Harlan Prater Jr., James M. Prater, and Charles Prater.

Services will be at 1:00pm Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery – West Lawn Addition. Visitation will be from 11:30am until the time of service on Saturday. Memorial contributions may be given to the Henry County Animal Shelter, 11 Midway Dr. New Castle, IN 47362. You may express condolences or share memories of Howard at www.hinsey-brown.com.