Robert Kennison, Jr.
Smithfield
Robert Kennison, Jr., 78, of Smithfield, died Sunday, April 26, 2026 in WVU Uniontown Hospital, after years of suffering from heart disease. He was born December 21, 1947, the son of Robert “Debo” Kennison and Joanne Colebank of White House.
He graduated from Albert Gallitin High School and served in the U.S. Army, First Infantry Division, during the Vietnam War.
He began his career as a chef at Lakeview Country Club in Morgantown, W.Va., where he became a head chef, a position that he held in many fine dining restaurants in Morgantown and Uniontown.
Bob enjoyed playing softball in his younger days, and loved coaching his sons’ baseball teams.
Bob was married to his wife, Rita DeMichele Kennison, who survives, for 54 years.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind sons, Bob and Josh, whose care offered him a better quality of life.
Bob was the eldest of 10 children. Cindy Everly and Luanne Myers predeceased him.
Surviving are Don Kennison (Linda) of Kingwood, W.Va., Dave Kennison (Peg), also of Kingwood, Susie Riggen (Brian), Rita Reese (Terry) of Smithfield, Debbie Forquer (Whitney) of Wadestown, W.Va., Rich Kennison, Sr. (Jetta) of Fairchance, Lori Myers (Paul) of Salem, Ohio; brothers-in-law, Howie Myers of Smithfield and Ted DeMichele of Uniontown; sisters-in-law, Diane Jakubowski (Jake) of Mt. Airy, Md., and Juanita Strange (Steve) of Hopwood; along withmany nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great- nephews, as well as cousins also survive. His faithful dog, Bucky will miss him tremendously.
Bob will be interred at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, with full military rites and honors. As per his wishes, there will be no viewing or funeral service.
GOLDSBORO-FABRY FUNERAL HOME, INC., Fairchance, has been entrusted with Bob’s professional funeral arrangements.
Condolences to the family are welcome at goldsboro-fabry.com