Maplewood Richmond Heights graduate of 1975, Ray Kennedy, age 57, once a world-renowned jazz pianist, is fighting multiple sclerosis, and a crowdsourcing website (Youcaring.com) has been set up to raise funds to help his family with his care.
Kennedy’s sister, Wanda Kuntz, said he went to New York City in his early 20s, “and never looked back.” Kuntz is a piano teacher in St. Louis. Their parents owned Kennedy Music in Maplewood.
Kuntz said Kennedy has been in a nursing home in New York for almost a year. He is married, with two young daughters.
The money being raised goes to pay for a companion to do various things for him through the day that he can’t do for himself. Almost $30,000 of the $50,000 goal has been reached.
Kuntz said Kennedy began to experience the whole myriad of symptoms of MS in 2006, and it advanced quickly.
“He really can’t hardly move any part of his body,” she said. “He moves his arms, but he also has a potential tremor that keeps him from picking things up.”
“It’s because of my other brother’s career (Tom Kennedy), and because I live a thousand miles away we can’t be there all the time,” Kuntz said. “People normally can’t. They have their own lives they have to do.”
Kuntz said he keeps a positive attitude and he loves it when people call or visit.
Visit the Youcaring.com site to make a donation to help with Kennedy’s care.
So shocked to hear this! My wife and I met the John Pizzarelli Trio in 1994 in Cologne, Germany, strolling through a departement store. I knew the guys and their music before, so I talked to them and we had a nice conversation that afternoon. And in the evening they played near Cologne on a festival and invited us to come there (what we had intended anyway). Since then, I always remembered Rays permanent grin, at least, when I listened to some of his recordings, we own. I am so sorry to read now about his illness and the problems for his family. American health system is, from a german point of view, inhuman. All our best wishes to this great guy and his family.
As you watch this video, you can see both his expertise, and the absolute joy he exuded while playing. I believe that, when the music teacher and I decided to produce our first musical, YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN, Ray was the pianist.
As a young teacher in the 70’s, I was privileged to know Ray; his family and music store are legendary! Wondered why he stopped touring. Have a dear friend–teacher and professional actress–who was diagnosed with MS at a later age and experienced with deep sadness the progression of the disease. My heart breaks for this fine man and extraordinary musician and his family and friends. A sad journey, with blessings for all who support him.
Doug, thank you so much for sharing this wonderful article about my cousin Ray. He has such a great attitude and is very grateful that so many people think and care about him. Prayers and contributions will help keep him going. Thanks and may God bless all who support him.
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