IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Richard Thomas

Richard Thomas Kenney Profile Photo

Kenney

May 1, 1952 – January 23, 2026

Obituary

Listen to Obituary

Richard Kenney, a devoted Husband, Dad, and Pops, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of music, laughter, and love.

Born and raised in Long Island, New York, to the late Lawrence and Noreane Kenney, he carried the spirit of the island with him throughout his life. Returning back to Long Island, after attending Drake University (Class of 1974), destiny led him to a local haunt called the Pewter Tankard. It was there he met Barbara in 1975, leading to a beautiful marriage of 48 years with three children, one daughter-in-law, two granddaughters, and a life rich with friendships that spanned decades and state lines.

Though his career with the IRS moved the family to Northern Virginia, Rich’s commitment to his family and community only grew. He was the ultimate Dad in every sense—not only attending every sporting event and back-to-school night but diving into the middle of the action as a Little League coach and the booming voice of the announcer at summer swim meets.

Richie had a special, unique relationship with each of his three children: Jill, Scott, and Dylan. As they grew into adults, the bond evolved into one of friendship, filled with trips, Yankee and Caps games, concerts, and even five LOCKN' Festivals. He was a man who lived by the soundtrack of the Beatles and the Grateful Dead, and he brought that same "long strange trip" energy to his life. He cherished his friends as family and lived for summer trips to North Myrtle Beach, where he dominated at bocce and ladder ball, excelled at imitating 'titanic people', and taught the next generation how to build the best sandcastles. Whether he was on a cruise with family and friends, had his feet in the sand, or was grilling in a every weather condition possible including snowstorms or torrential rains because Barbara asked, Rich did it with a smile and a beer in hand (his favorite kind being "the one he is currently drinking”).

He adored his granddaughters, Avery and Lennon. He loved the simple, pure magic of seeing the world through their eyes, while equally providing and feeding off of their energy, as he was in every sense still a kid at heart.

Richie was a man who truly lived life to the fullest. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his children, Jill Kenney, Scott Kenney (Krystal), and Dylan Kenney; and his granddaughters, Avery and Lennon. He also leaves behind a wide circle of friends and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Larry Kenney.

A celebration of Richard's vibrant life will be held in late Spring 2026, when the weather is as warm as the memories he left behind. More details will follow.

Please no flowers.

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