NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State softball family mourns the passing of longtime pitching coach Bill Kennedy, who served as an assistant with the Redbirds for 24 years. Kennedy was 79.
"We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Bill's passing," head softball coach Melinda Fischer shared. "He was an educator, who loved Illinois State and had a tremendous passion for fast-pitch softball. Bill's wealth of knowledge and willingness to work from a distance, before taking on the role full-time, meant so much to all of us in the program during his time here. He had a way with words that could reach all skill levels and a sense of humor that was unique to him. He instilled confidence in those around him and was a firm believer that leadership 'starts in the circle.' He touched the lives of so many and made an impact that went beyond our sport. His dedication to Illinois State and the softball program will be forever remembered."
Kennedy attended Illinois State and during his junior year, he was hired for his first job at Ben Funk Elementary School as a sixth-grade teacher, coaching basketball and driving the school bus. In 1969, the Bloomington-Normal Jaycees awarded him the Outstanding Young Educator of the Year. He graduated with his master's degree from ISU in 1972 and became the principal at Heyworth Grade School and Junior High School, before eventually retiring in 1994.
Kennedy began his second career in 1986 as the Redbird pitching coach when he was recruited by Fischer.
During his time with Illinois State, Kennedy mentored four All-American pitchers, five NFCA All-Region First- or Second-Team selections, three MVC Players of the Year, one Valley Rookie of the Year and 21 All-Valley First- or Second-Team honorees. He was a member of the Illinois State coaching staff in 2006 that earned MVC Coaching Staff of the Year and NFCA/Speedline Coaching Staff of the Year recognition.
Under Kennedy's direction, Redbird pitchers from 2000-08 posted a combined 2.03 ERA. ISU's team ERA of 1.42 in 2003 was the team's lowest since the 1987 season and Illinois State pitchers set a total of 11 season records under Kennedy.
His pitching career began in 1952 with the Silver Leaf 4-H softball league and continued throughout the years with Laesch Dairy, GMC Truck, Ebach Realty and Bloomington Hearts until 1982. During his career, Kennedy's pitching took the Hearts to their first Midwest Regional Title, their first ASA National Tournament and, in 1982, the ASA Nationals and ISC World tournaments.
During his retirement, he enjoyed golfing at Crestwicke Country Club, and he was an avid gardener and landscaper. Kennedy was a devoted Redbird fan, attending all ISU sporting events. A private graveside service will be held at Funks Grove Cemetery, while a celebration of life will be held on May 30 at Crestwicke Country Club. To express condolences online, please visit www.carmodyflynn.com.
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