He was born in Jonesboro, Georgia on January 20, 1931. He passed away on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 “Gene” is survived by his wife, Malry; two daughters Maray Daniel & Shanna Benton; two sons in laws—Terrell Benton, Jeff Daniel– daughters Sarah & Mary; a brother, Wayne Kendrick-wife Sharon; a sister Helen Cooley—husband Harold; step grandchildren—Christian & Brandi Langley; nieces and nephews. Elkins Funeral Home in Florence, Alabama will direct the funeral. Reverend Robert Sparkman will officiate and Ed Barney will present the eulogy. Visitation will be in the Atrium of Florence First United Methodist Church on Saturday, September 16 from 12 till 2 pm. The funeral service will immediately follow in the Sanctuary at First Methodist. Burial will ensue at Greenview Memorial Garden on Chisholm Road, Florence. Pall Bearers will be Jimmy Bragwell, Hank Friday, Bryan Miller, Terry Smith, John Harbin Sr. and John Harbin Jr. Gene entered school at age 5. He was President of his high school class all four years. He was Valedictorian and his IQ made him eligible for Mensa. He was awarded a Athletic & Scholastic scholarship, but chose to attend Georgia Southern University on the Scholastic award.. He was also named to “Who’s Who” in American Colleges and Universities. He taught school, was in the Coast Guard and returned to Jonesboro to be the high school’s Athletic Director, Coach and math teacher. He was also elected to the Jonesboro City Council, where he served for two terms. A job change led him to Sears Roebuck and a career in management. He moved his family to the Florence area with Sears in 1973, and opened the Sears store in Regency Square Mall. While in Florence he was involved in several community activities. He was active in First United Methodist Church and the Ferguson Sunday School Class; Colbert County Chamber of Commerce; Board of Directors of Florence Chamber of Commerce; and President of Regency Square Mall Associates. Gene was also active in Downtown Florence Unlimited, Florence Lauderdale County Industrial Expansion Corporation, UNA Sportsman’s Club, Kiwanis and the Summer Softball Organization. After retirement from Sears, he was hired by the City of Florence as the Braly Stadium manager,, and from his office window “Coach” Kendrick had the best seat in the house for all high school and UNA football games. Blessings to those who have supported the Kendrick family during a bleak time. This includes the employees of Hospice of Tennessee Valley. Gene had a ‘zest’ for life. He considered each day a gift. Whenever someone would ask him if he were having a good day, his response was always, ”Every day is a good day.”