Janice "Jan" Kennedy

Janice “Jan” Marie Kennedy, born April 8, 1952, in Hendricks, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, at the age of 72, following complications from Parkinson’s Disease. Jan was the second of four children, affectionately known by parents Oran and Marjorie Kennedy as the “Four J’s” of Jim, Jan, Joel, and Jean. During Jan’s early years, the Kennedy family lived in South Dakota and Wyoming before settling in Nebraska, where Jan would build a meaningful life and career. In 1985, Jan married Brent Gordy and embraced her most cherished role as a devoted mother to Wendy and Robbie. Her life was grounded in service—to her family, her community, and the countless individuals whose lives Jan touched through her professional work. A lifelong advocate for women’s health, Jan obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Nebraska and went on to become a certified OB-GYN nurse practitioner. Her commitment to compassionate, accessible care led Jan to Planned Parenthood of Omaha, where she worked as a clinical nurse practitioner for many years. She eventually served as Executive Director, leading a dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and administrators to provide vital reproductive health services across the region. Jan was deeply committed to the belief that all individuals, no matter their background, deserved the knowledge and resources to make informed, empowered decisions about their health and families. In both Omaha and later Topeka, Jan was known for her selfless spirit and generous heart. She was a steadfast presence in her children’s lives—volunteering at Millard South High School, offering gentle wisdom, and celebrating every milestone with pride. Jan was equally devoted to her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends, always ready with a listening ear, a good book recommendation, or a warm smile. An avid reader who could finish several books in a week, Jan found joy in words and ideas. She was a longtime volunteer at the Topeka Public Library and a familiar face on neighborhood walks, where her wave and kind greeting brightened many days. Above all, Jan will be remembered for her gentle strength, unwavering compassion, and boundless love. Jan is survived by her beloved husband, Brent; her children, Wendy and Robbie; her grandchildren, Megan and Brendan; and her siblings, Jim, Joel, and Jean. A celebration of Jan’s life will be 1:30 p.m. on May 5, 2025, at Countryside United Methodist Church, 3221 SW Burlingame Road, Topeka KS 66611. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jan’s memory to Planned Parenthood, 3105 N. 93rd Street, Omaha NE 68134. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.

Janice "Jan" Kennedy

April 8, 1952 - February 26, 2025