James P. Kenney

James P. Kenney, of York Beach, ME, formerly Everett, passed away surrounded by his loving family on August 24, 2024, at age 85. He was the beloved husband of Sheila M. (Hogan) Kenney with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Devoted father of James P. (Laura) Kenney, Jr. of Medford, Janice (Dan) Gray of N. Reading, Michael (Jill) Kenney of Malden, Julie MacVicar of Exeter, NH and Erin (Ryan) Van Geons of Reading. Proud grandfather, referred to as “P”, of Samantha and Erica Kenney, Andrew and Caraline Gray, Ryan and Sydney MacVicar, Benjamin and Avery Van Geons. He was predeceased by his siblings, Dolly, Linda and Mickey.

Born in Boston and raised in Somerville, Jim was raised by his mother, Mildred Anders.  Jim was an avid baseball player.  He spent much of his childhood on the baseball fields of Somerville, eventually playing second base for Somerville High School.   At one point in his career, he was invited to Spring Training for the Boston Red Sox.  An unfortunate injury derailed his plans.  He spent many years as a coach for Everett Youth League, Babe Ruth and CYO baseball.

Jim was a proud member of the IUOE Local #4 for 60 years.  He spent over 30 years of his career working for Marr Equipment Corp. as an Operator, Salesman and ultimately Vice President of Sales.  He was well respected in the industry by all.   He was elected to the Marr Company “Hall of Fame” in his retirement.

Jim was a true family man. He and his wife Sheila raised 5 children on Sea Street in Everett.  He was proud of his children and adored his 8 grandchildren.   He built a home in Maine large enough to host the entire family and looked forward to their visits.  He especially enjoyed the Kenney family annual apple picking, July 4th celebrations and family Christmas parties when the entire family was together.

Jim had many hobbies: sailing, fishing, watching Boston Sports, and playing bocce. He could fix anything and spent many hours helping family, friends, and neighbors with their projects.

In his retirement, Jim spent winters in Boca Raton, Florida where he spent time with friends and always looked forward to playing in the annual bocce tournament.  His summers were spent in Maine tending to his flowers, enjoying family gatherings and relaxing on his beautiful, sunny porch with his wife, Sheila.

Jim’s kindness, generosity, love of life and caring nature enriched the lives of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in honor of Jim's life during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., MELROSE, on Wednesday, August 28, from 4 to 7pm and again on Thursday, at 8:30am, before leaving in procession to Immaculate Conception Church, 489 Broadway, Everett, for his Funeral Mass, celebrated at 10am.  Interment in Glenwood Cemetery, Everett.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of James may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Jimmy Fund, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA. 02284-9168 or online at The Jimmy Fund in Honor of James P. Kenney