Jeffery Kendall

Jeffery "Jeff" Richard Kendall was one of the best. For those who knew him, whether you’ve heard it or not, you wouldn’t doubt for a second the truth of one favorite memory: He once picked up someone down on their luck who was hitchhiking through Chattanooga, TN. Before the mission of mercy was completed, he had driven all the way to Washington, DC. “No worries! Happy to help!” That seemed to be Jeff’s life motto. Jeff touched the lives of many through his selfless service, willingness to go the extra mile—literally—and his steady commitment to living the Jesus way. 

Jeff was born to John and Kathleen (Belknap) Kendall on December 12, 1985 in Seale, AL. From the start he was a people person, and his family remembers that he never met a stranger. The ability to turn just about anyone into a new friend was a gift he carried throughout his life. It was his desire to do something to serve people that led him to pursue a career in dentistry, graduating from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in May 2021. Jeff loved working with his hands building things or fixing things, he was good at it, and he found a rewarding outlet for it in the nearly three years he practiced as a general dentist. 

Even-tempered, easy-going, unflappable. That was Jeff. He took life in stride, and never seemed to ride the highs or lows. He had a calming presence, and enjoyed connecting over music—he was a self-taught and accomplished guitarist—photography, aviation, disc golf, good books, Chiefs football, Braves baseball, Chacos, corny jokes, and a good ol’ structure-shaking sneeze. When Covid-19 shut down the dental school campus for the last of that 2020 semester, Jeff eagerly escaped southern CA for the wide-open spaces of Kansas and time with family. It was during those few months that Jeff started spending more and more time at the disc golf course with a particular someone. When he finally had to return to Loma Linda University the next fall, he had a girlfriend—the love of his life, Lauren Kirkpatrick. Jeff’s family and friends remember how, after his engagement to Lauren in the early spring of 2021, he would nearly squeal with joy whenever he would remind them, “She said, ‘Yes!’ I’m getting marrieeeed!” 

Jeff and Lauren were married at Chapel Oaks SDA Church in Shawnee, KS on August 15, 2021, and within the year purchased their first home together, and welcomed their son, Alexander "Alex" Lucas on April 25, 2022. Jeff always loved kids, and was thrilled at becoming a dad. From the beginning Jeff was intentional in leading his family in worship time together, and teaching little Alex the songs and scriptures he loved. It wasn’t long before Jeff, Lauren, and Alex welcomed Rebecca "Becca" Lynn on August 18, 2023. Together they loved reading books, taking walks outside, and going to the park. And still music and singing together were a centerpiece of life together. Almost before they could speak in complete sentences, Alex and Becca could sing all the lyrics of all the verses of “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” 

On April 27, 2024, after a couple of weeks of unexplained headaches that grew in intensity, Jeff was diagnosed with a brain tumor—glioblastoma. After a 2 ½ year battle, Jeff passed away on the morning of September 22, 2026 with Lauren and other family at his side. To the end, Jeff continued to turn to Jesus for strength for each day. He continued to love people, and drew a lot of comfort and encouragement from the many visits with family and friends throughout his journey. He continued to love music and its ability to help tune our hearts to heaven’s frequency of grace. And he continued to hold fast to the promise of the resurrection and belief that God will make all things new. “These words are faithful and true.” (Rev 22:6)

Jeff’s family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to all the family and friends who have helped in countless ways to provide support and encouragement throughout this difficult journey. Your patience, presence, and persistence have touched our hearts. A memorial service in loving memory of Jeff will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel Oaks Seventh-day Adventist Church. (6245 Monticello Rd, Shawnee, KS 66226) In the place where Jeff faithfully gathered with his family each week for worship and connection, we will gather to remember God’s faithfulness in Jeff’s life and ours, and remind each other of the hope we hold onto in Jesus. All are welcome to join. 

In lieu of flowers, Jeff’s family would appreciate donations to an educational fund for Alex and Becca.