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SMITHVILLE — The Smithville Independent School District community recently supported a student in mourning.
Amy Kennon, who taught special education courses at Smithville ISD for 16 years and most recently at Smithville High School, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 18. She leaves behind three children, Abby, Cody and Claire.
Claire Kennon, a senior at the high school, is captain of the school’s varsity team. Her mother was honored prior to the volleyball game between Taylor High School and Smithville High School Tuesday, Oct. 24.
Players, coaches and spectators were dressed in green shirts with the name Kennon on the back and a volleyball-designed heart on the front. The game had a moment of silence for the former teacher after the team was introduced.
“When Coach (Bonnie) Besetzny and I heard the news of Amy’s passing, we sat in our office and tried to think of things we could do to help her children,” said Regina Estrada, SHS volleyball head coach. “We thought that shirts would be a nice way for Claire to feel her mom’s presence at her last home game.”
Additionally, the coaches organized a silent auction to fundraise to benefit the children. Beginning at 4:30 p.m. that day, game attendees could bid on signs, shirts, hats and other items.
“We also thought the silent auction would help generate funds to help defray any expenses her kids might have,” Estrada said.
Claire Kennon was one of five seniors honored on their senior night against the Lady Ducks. Each senior gave a speech and received a gift before the pregame warmup.
Estrada said everything Claire Kennon’s plate may have been a little overwhelming for her, but the senior settled in as the match went on. Estrada said Claire Kennon was able to quickly refocus all of her energy and emotion.
“Claire’s love for the game has been evident for the last two seasons I’ve been at Smithville, which is why she was captain of the team this season,” Estrada said. “She pushed her team to focus in practice and leave it all on the court every game.”
Amy Kennon’s loved ones say she fought tirelessly for students who were often overlooked in her role.
They also said she was a safe place for those at school.
After her passing, an Amy Wood Kennon scholarship was established. The scholarship proceeds will go to SHS students who are in the special education program.
