Jim Kennedy was only 43 when he suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm on November 13, 2003. Nine days later, he lost the battle for life and he passed away.

“Jim taught us how to love, work, play and most importantly, how to serve others,” said his wife, Kim. “He continues to serve others even in his death – three people are alive today and dozens more have their health restored because of Jim’s giving spirit.”

Jim’s right kidney was transplanted in a 45-year-old woman with diabetes, and his left kidney went to a 52-year-old woman who had waited nearly three years for her life-saving transplant. His liver went to a 50-year-old man who has two children and works as a dermatology technician. “They haven’t yet written to us, but I hope they do,” added Kim. “But in the meantime, I take comfort knowing they are alive because Jim cared.”

With the help of friends and family, Kim and her two daughters have found ways to honor and remember Jim. A sound system was donated in his memory at the church where he played guitar in the praise band. A battle site on the grounds of Sycamore Shoals State Park was dedicated to honor his memory and service in the cast and crew of “Liberty,” Tennessee’s official outdoor drama. On Jim’s birthday, October 31, the Kennedys celebrate by purchasing gifts for needy children and donating them to Operation Christmas Children’s shoebox program.