Jax State Mourns the Passing of Trustee Emeritus and Beloved Supporter, Mr. Bob Kennamer
Jacksonville, AL (12/02/2025) — Jacksonville State University is mourning the loss of Mr. Bob Kennamer, Trustee Emeritus, alumnus, and one of the most dedicated servants in the university's history. Mr. Kennamer passed away Sunday morning, leaving behind a legacy shaped by leadership, loyalty, and an unparalleled devotion to the institution he cherished for nearly seven decades.
Mr. Kennamer enrolled at Jacksonville State in September 1955, attending what was then Jacksonville State Teachers College. As a student, he quickly became known for his initiative and involvement on campus, serving as Vice President and President of the Student Government Association and as a proud member of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity.
During his term as SGA President, he led the fundraising effort that re-established Jax State's baseball program, securing the equipment needed for Coach Frank Lovrich and his student-athletes to return to the field. He graduated in 1958 with a bachelor's degree in business administration and later became the university's first single male dorm director while beginning graduate studies.
"Bob Kennamer truly loved Jacksonville State. You could see it in the way he supported our students, our programs, and the people who make this place special," said Jax State President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. "He devoted his life to serving this university and the people who make it special. For decades, he gave his time, his energy, and his wisdom to help guide Jax State through times of challenge and times of tremendous growth. To me, he wasn't just a trusted leader-he was a dear friend. The impact of his service will be felt for generations, and we are a better university because of the life he lived."
After a successful career in insurance and real estate development, Mr. Kennamer continued to demonstrate the same dedication to service that defined his time as a student. In 1980, he was appointed to the Jacksonville State University Board of Trustees, where he served for more than 26 years. Throughout that time, he provided steady, thoughtful leadership as the university experienced significant growth and change. He also served on the JSU Foundation Board as a founding member and on the SouthTrust Bank Board of Directors. His counsel remained invaluable long after he was named Trustee Emeritus.
Mr. Kennamer's commitment to Jacksonville State extended well beyond his years on the Board. He remained deeply engaged in the life of the university, offering advice, supporting key initiatives, and helping strengthen programs across campus. He and his late wife, Lou, played an enduring role in expanding opportunities for students and enhancing the overall Jax State experience. In recognition of their dedication, the university honored them with the naming of Bob and Lou Kennamer Hall, and in 2006, Mr. Kennamer received an honorary doctorate from Jacksonville State University.
In 2009, Jax State Athletics honored Bob and Lou Kennamer with the Jimmy Bryan Award, recognizing their decades of dedication to Gamecock student-athletes. He was also a member of the university's Lifetime Leaders Society, reflecting a lifetime of involvement and service.
For all his accomplishments, it is his kindness, loyalty, and genuine care for others that the Jax State family will remember most. Generations of students, faculty, staff, coaches, and alumni were impacted by his encouragement and by the example he set.
As the Jax State family grieves this profound loss, we extend our deepest sympathies to those impacted by Mr. Kennamer's life. His legacy of service, leadership, and love for Jacksonville State will continue to inspire all who follow.
A Celebration of Life and Reunion of Friends will be held on Tuesday, December 9, at 3 p.m. at the Stone Center on the campus of Jacksonville State.
About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers' college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.
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