Obituary of Natalie “Patti” Kennedy

Natalie Patricia (Patti) Kennedy, Jr, 60, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully at home with her Mother by her side on February 4, 2020 under the care of Health First Hospice staff after a long illness. Patti was born on December 17, 1959 in Brevard Hospital, Melbourne, Florida. She grew up in Melbourne, graduated Eau Gallie High School, Class of 1977, attended Brevard Community College, and received an A.A. from Keiser University. She was two classes short of attaining her Bachelors degree prior to her illness. She worked for several divisions of Harris Corporation and for DRS. Her Mother, Natalie Pat Kennedy, Sr; her Mother’s Life Partner, Edward C. Rau, Father, E. Gayle Kennedy, Sister, Nicole Kennedy-Ewen, her two Nieces, Mian and Aili survive her along with her Uncle Thomas DeRosa, Aunts Joan DeRosa, Lynda Kennedy, and numerous Cousins. Her Maternal Grandparents Victor and Natalie DeRosa and Paternal Grandparents Joseph and Margaret Kennedy predeceased her. In 1964, selected from 62 contestants, Patti became Little Miss Brevard County. As one of her duties, she along with County Commissioner Joe Wickham opened the first McDonald’s in Melbourne (on Hibiscus Avenue). She was a member of the Eau Gallie High School Swim Team and a naturally gifted artist. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with her two nieces. They brought a sparkle to her life and she was so proud of them both. She was a most loving and giving person and loved by all who met her. Her laughter was infectious. Her viewing will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2020 at Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care, located at 1001 South Hickory Street in Melbourne.  Her funeral is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11th at the same location. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her name and honor to the American Cancer Society or the Humane Society.