Dorothy Hodges Kennett

Dorothy Hodges Kennett, born July 13, 1937, in Carroll, Iowa, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, in Northbrook, Illinois. She was known for her professional dedication, her deep commitment to education, and love for family.

Dorothy’s journey began in central Iowa, where she cultivated a love for learning that would become the cornerstone of her life’s pursuits. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Simpson College, then furthered her intellectual passion by earning a Masters in Library Sciences at Illinois State University, a field to which Dorothy would dedicate her career.

In education, Dorothy taught grade school in Des Moines, Iowa and Harvey, Illinois, served as Media Coordinator for Pekin Public Schools and managed the Learning Resource Center at Illinois State University, where she taught classes in media arts. After her career, Dorothy established an Illinois State Milner Library Endowment Fund, funding activities, and programs associated with the teaching materials center. Dorothy’s impact extended far beyond the classroom and library walls. As the founder of Books for South Africa, a charitable organization that established libraries for rural South African villages, she traveled across continents, bringing the gift of literacy, imagination, and hope to countless lives. These journeys were among her proudest accomplishments.

Dorothy’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the founder/owner of Kent’s Crossing Bookstore in Normal, Illinois. It was a lovely shop that brought seekers of knowledge and imagination together.  The bookstore embodied Dorothy’s belief in the transformative power of books and community.  She also served as a Deacon of the Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington, an advisory member of Pi Beta Phi local chapter, board member of Immanuel Bible Foundation, member of the Bloomington/Normal Rotary Club, SCORE Mentors Central Illinois, P.E.O., Books for South Africa, and the “As You Like It” Club. 

Those closest to Dorothy will remember her for the love of family and friends. She created a warm and welcoming home during the holiday season, a testament to her gift for making every celebration extraordinary, filled with laughter, special meals, thoughtful gifts, and lovingly crafted decorations. Outside of family gatherings, Dorothy’s passions included bridge clubs, reading and book clubs, and cheering on her sons at sporting events. 

Dorothy’s life was anchored by her devotion to her family. She is survived by her sons Steve (Kendra), Jon (Anne), and Greg (Amie) Kennett; her grandchildren, Andrew (Lydia) Kennett, Emmy Kennett, Matt Kennett, Megan (Jon) Tessmann, Audrey Kennett, Freddy (Sara) Kennett, Alex Kennett, and Casey Kennett; and her great-grandson, Oliver Tessmann. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents Mabel (Hillyer) and Howard Hodges, and her beloved husband of 60 years, Robert F. Kennett.

Her legacy is one of warmth, compassion, and a commitment to education and community service. Dorothy will be remembered as someone who brought light and opportunity into every life she touched, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Dorothy's Life will be held in the fall, the details of which will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions made in Dorothy's memory to the 2nd Presbyterian Church, 404 N Prairie, Bloomington, IL 61701 or the Immanuel Bible Foundation, 1301 S Fell Ave., Normal, IL 61761 would be greatly appreciated.