A hero and a legend of Anderson, South Carolina passed away December 16th, 2019 at the age of 73. James “Radio” Kennedy will be a hero gone but never forgotten. Radio was part of the T.L. Hanna football program for years after showing up on the field as a teenager in the mid 1960s.
Kennedy was only a teenager with a radio to his ear. He was unable to barely speak, let alone read and write. He began mocking the coaches and sending out hand signals. The coaches and players named him Radio, and he became part of the football family. In 1964, former T. L. Hanna football coach Harold Jones befriended Radio.
The friendship between Jones and radio was the main focus of the film ” Radio” in 2003. Radio previously hospitalized in early December. At that time he was treated for pancreatitis, along with diabetes and kidney issues. In 2016 Radio he earned a spot in the T.L. Hanna Athletic Hall of Fame.
A Hero but Not Forgotten
Radio inspired so many people in Anderson, South Carolina. He loved football and loved running out onto the field during the games. I had an opportunity to see Radio. My mother and I was at Sam’s Club, and as we were walking out the Boys and Girls Booster Club was there. Radio was pushing a cart around. My mom wore a Clemson Tigers shirt, and Radio saw it and said “Go Tigers.” I said ” Are we gonna win Radio?'” He said ” yes.” I never personally knew Radio but that day he was so happy to be there, and loved interacting with people. Radio will always be a hero but not forgotten. Inspiration to many people everywhere. Heroes and inspirations can come into your life, and teach you many things; and many cases can change your life. James “Radio” Kennedy was definitely one. You will truly be missed down here in Anderson. Now its time for you to play with all the footballs and radios in the sky.
