News Summary

The Jacksonville community is in mourning following the loss of Kennedy Waymer, a vibrant young athlete who battled osteosarcoma. At just 19 years old, she inspired many with her determination, maintaining her studies and athletic commitments despite her illness. Friends and family remember her radiant spirit and encouraging nature. A celebration of her life is planned for October 25, honoring her legacy and the impact she made during her short time.

Jacksonville Community in Shock Over Loss of Softball Star

Jacksonville is in mourning as it remembers a remarkable young woman, Kennedy Waymer, who tragically lost her battle with osteosarcoma at just 19 years old on October 14. Known for her dazzling smile and infectious spirit, Kennedy was a standout athlete and an inspiration to her friends, family, and teammates.

A Bright Star Cut Short

Kennedy’s journey took a heartbreaking turn in April 2024 when she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, just before she was scheduled to graduate high school. The diagnosis shook not only her family but the entire community that recognized her as a star athlete on the softball field. Despite the diagnosis, Kennedy fought valiantly. She underwent a grueling 19 rounds of chemotherapy and underwent two lung surgeries during her battle against the relentless disease.

A Champion in Both Sports and Studies

The former high school athlete didn’t let her health struggles shift her focus from her dreams. Kennedy graduated from high school with an impressive 4.6 GPA, showcasing her dedication to her education. She was excited to start her journey in college on a pre-engineering track at the College of Coastal Georgia. She received a scholarship for softball, an achievement reflecting her hard work and commitment to the sport she loved dearly.

A Life of Positivity and Encouragement

Kennedy’s parents, Ron and Sandra Waymer, remember her as a happy-go-lucky kid who would light up any room she entered. Friends and family describe her as a “light” taken too soon. They fondly remember her as someone who lived each day with enthusiasm and motivation. Her teammate, Sharla Adams, shared how Kennedy was always encouraging her friends to stay focused on their studies, ensuring no one lost sight of their academic goals. Rod Carter, her basketball coach, expressed admiration for Kennedy’s competitive nature and the inspiration she provided to her teammates. In their eyes, Kennedy was more than just a player; she was a role model for everyone around her.

The Unforeseen Battle

Kennedy’s health concerns first caught everyone’s attention in the spring of 2024 when she began experiencing problems with her throwing arm. Initially, it was believed she was making progress through rehabilitation. However, a devastating setback occurred during a checkup in September 2025 when her cancer returned, and she subsequently lost her battle just a few weeks later.

A Community Comes Together

The heartbreak of Kennedy’s passing has stirred deep emotions within the Jacksonville community. Friends, family, and former classmates have united in their grief, holding tight to the beautiful memories they shared with her. In her honor, many community members are wearing yellow wristbands emblazoned with the phrases “Kennedy strong” and “put a (K) on cancer” as symbols of support and love for Kennedy and her family.

A Celebration of Life

As a fitting tribute to her vibrant spirit, a celebration of life service is scheduled for October 25 in Jacksonville, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and supporters to come together to cherish her life and all that she stood for. Though Kennedy may be gone, the impact she made on her community and the loving memories she leaves behind will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who knew her.

Remembering a True Warrior

The tragic loss of Kennedy Waymer serves as a reminder of how precious life is and how important it is to support each other through challenging times. Her spirit, courage, and determination will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression as the Jacksonville community continues to honor her remarkable legacy.

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