The Newport City Council unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday, August 28, to name the Stone Pier Dinghy Dock at King Park after Kevin N. Sheekey, a beloved resident who passed away in 2020.
“Kevin was a great man, great family man, as I explained in this resolution. And a friend. Friend to me, friend to all,” said Third Ward Councilor David Carlin III, who introduced the resolution.
Sheekey, a lifelong fifth-ward resident, died on July 26, 2020, after battling colon cancer. He was known for his deep connection to Newport and his contributions to the community.
The resolution described Sheekey as “the epitome of a great Newporter” and highlighted his various roles and affiliations within the city. He was the owner and operator of Newport Hardwood Floors, a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Dennis E. Collins Division 1 Newport, and a participant in the Newport Rugby Football Club.
Sheekey’s daughter, Keeley Rose, is mentioned as “the love and joy of his life.” The resolution also notes his dedication to St. Mary’s Church in Newport, where he was a faithful parishioner.
Most of the resolution focused on Sheekey’s connection to Newport Harbor and his efforts to improve the Stone Pier. The document states, “Kevin was a capable waterman and steward of Newport Harbor who spent countless hours on the bay, usually by way of Newport’s Stone Pier.”
Paul Harden, a former Waterfront Commission member, spoke in support of the dedication. “I think it’s an honorable thing to name the stone key or baby dock after Kevin. He’s well known in the waterfront community,” Harden said.
Before his passing, Sheekey was described as “an ardent supporter and promoter of expanding The Stone Pier so that it may better accommodate the many residents and visitors who use it every day.” The resolution credits his vision and efforts for today’s expanded pier.
The Newport Waterfront Commission supported this initiative. At its meeting on July 11, 2024, the commission unanimously requested that the Newport City Council officially name the new Stone Pier Dinghy Dock in honor of Kevin Sheekey.
With approval, the resolution authorizes that the Stone Pier Dinghy Dock “henceforth be known to all as ‘The Kevin N. Sheekey Stone Pier Dinghy Dock.'”
The resolution also includes a provision for a copy to be presented to Keeley Sheekey upon passage, ensuring that Sheekey’s family is formally recognized in this commemoration.
The Newport City Council vote on this Resolution was 6-0. Council Chair Xaykham (Xay) Khamsyvoravong was absent from the meeting.
Resolution
