Audrey Kennedy Short

Audrey Kennedy Short, 99, a life-long resident of Brookwood, Alabama, passed away peacefully in her home on December 31st, 2023 surrounded by family. Audrey was a long-time member of Davis Creek Baptist Church and cornerstone of the Griffin Ridge Community in Brookwood. Preceding her in death were her parents, Samuel M. and Georgie Kennedy, her beloved husband Paul Short, her siblings J.R. Kennedy, Samuel Kennedy, Jr., Hazel Contorno, Evelyn Mangham, Frances Worley, and Marie Lambert, along with her son Samuel P. Short. Audrey always put family first, and leaves behind a wonderful legacy. She is survived by her loving daughter Carolyn Brewer (Bill) and daughter-in-law Freddie Short, both of Brookwood. Cherished grandchildren Jason Short of Tuscaloosa, Jennifer Fuller of Helena, Jared Short (Katie) of Birmingham, Scott Brewer (Fallon) of Hoover, and Christie Brewer (Rebecca) of Atlanta, Georgia. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Dalton, Weston, Claire, Henry, Presley, Chloe, and Barrett, as well as her grandcat Spooks. Numerous nieces and nephews also blessed her life with love and joy. As Audrey’s late life caretaker, Carolyn's tireless efforts and compassionate care have been a source of comfort not only to Audrey but to all who witnessed the profound connection between mother and daughter. A force to be reckoned with, Audrey owned and operated a beauty shop and floral shop for decades, making a lasting impact on the lives she touched. Fiercely independent and hardworking, Audrey continued to live life to the fullest as a widow for decades, after spending many wonderful years with her husband, Paul, the love of her life. Her passions extended to silk flower arranging, tending to her garden, and creating precious memories with her family and loved ones. A culinary matriarch in her own right, Audrey found joy and fulfillment in the kitchen, where she delighted in cooking for her family and friends. Her most loved dish was her special chicken dressing recipe, a staple at every holiday that brought together loved ones and created lasting memories around the dining table. She took pride in harvesting from her own garden, canning her vegetables, and sharing with her family. Audrey's dedication to cooking reflected her love and generosity, making every meal a celebration of family bonds. Audrey's warm spirit and undeniable love were felt by all who knew her. Her home was a haven of warmth and welcome, where friends and family were embraced with open arms. Audrey made everyone feel like family from the first time she met them, creating a wonderful community around her where everyone she met felt loved by her, almost instantly. While Audrey will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness, resilience, and love will endure in the hearts of those fortunate enough to share in her life. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Audrey's life at Bessemer Brown Service Funeral Home on Friday, January 5th, 2024 from 5 - 7 PM, with funeral service Saturday January 6th, 2024 at 11:00 AM, with burial following at Davis Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Brookwood, Chaplain Mike Lewis and Rev. Bill Brewer will be officiating the service. Pallbearers will be Jason Short, Jared Short, Scott Brewer, Mark Garrison, Dennis Causey, and Mike Burchfield. Honorary pallbearers are Dave Reynolds, Jerry Tingle, Steve Shattuck, Chuck Garrison, Neal Pope, Benny Causey, Andy Shirley, and Denny Turner.

Audrey Kennedy Short

June 11, 1924 - December 31, 2023