Josephine Hickey Kennedy, of Fairport, NY, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, at the age of 89, at St. Ann’s Care Center at Cherry Ridge, following a long and courageous battle with dementia.
She was predeceased by her parents, Raymond and Ann Hickey; her beloved son, Neil Kennedy; and her sisters, Mary (Andy) McClare and Fran (Greg) Cookson.
Josephine or Jo as she liked to be called was born in Corning, NY, where she was raised alongside her two cherished sisters. After graduating from high school, she attended St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in Elmira, New York, where she not only earned her RN nursing degree but also formed lifelong friendships she held dear.
Jo devoted many years to her career as a nurse before becoming part owner and administrator of Town Gate East Adult Home in Penfield, NY, in 1976. There, she brought vision, compassion, and determination to her work, overseeing a major expansion that nearly doubled the facility’s size. A trailblazer in a predominantly male industry, Jo was known for her strength, high standards, and unwavering commitment to excellence. She treated every resident as family, and many became an extension of her own. Through her example, she instilled in her children a deep sense of compassion, teaching them to care for others with dignity, acceptance, and kindness.
As her health declined, Jo was blessed to receive exceptional care at The Rochester Presbyterian Home and later at St. Ann’s Care Center at Cherry Ridge. Rochester Regional Hospice Care was extraordinary as well near the end of her journey. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who not only tended to her needs but embraced her with dignity, grace, and love. Their compassion will never be forgotten. They are truly angels on earth.
Jo’s greatest joy was her family, especially her nine grandchildren: Kelly (EJ Power) Nickason, Ryan (Anna) Nickason, Colin Nickason, Megan (Brad) Vanino, Marisa (Austin) Rogers, Kayla Kennedy, Kamryn Kennedy, Brayden Kennedy, and Liana Kennedy. She treasured the time spent with them and the memories they created together. She is also survived by her four great-grandchildren, Jackson and Beckham Vanino, Kayce Rogers and Niamh Power.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Norine (Greg) Nickason; her sons, John (Suzette) Kennedy and Douglas Kennedy; as well as many special nieces and nephews.
There will be no prior calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Chapel at St. Ann’s Cherry Ridge, 900 Cherry Ridge Boulevard, Webster, NY, on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM. Burial will be held privately at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Corning, NY.
4 responses to “Kennedy, Josephine H.”
Norine, your mom gave me my first opportunity to step into the assisted living world as a Case Manager under her direction and she was a great mentor. She was calm and collected no matter what the day brought to her door at Town Gate East. She was always so proud of your accomplishments in the field as well! I will always remember what she did for me. Condolences to you and your family and may Jo’s memories be with you always Norine.
I’m a voice from Jo’s far-distant past. She and I “dated” for a few years – even though she lived on the Northside of Corning and I lived on the south. We attended different (rival) high schools and met at one of the dances held for any teens.
Jo was a very nice ‘girlfriend’, if you could call her that, and we enjoyed many get-togethers.
I’m sorry to hear about her passing but I’m sure she’s in a much better place than we are.
Joe Gehl Corning Free Academy class of 1950
Norine, I am so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing. She lives in my memory as the “cool” mom on the block!
Growing up next door to you was so much fun. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers
Liz (Chirico) Brown and Dave Brown
I loved your mom. She helped me become the person I am today. The Kennedy family will always be my family too.