Dr. John James Kenny, of Newport, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
He was the beloved husband of Susan L. Kenny (Shaw, Revens); devoted father of John David Kenny and his wife, Mindy Walls; proud grandfather of Josiah James Merlin Kenny; loving brother of Joan F. Kenny and Patricia A. Kenny; and brother of the late Francis J. Kenny. He is also survived by his stepchildren: Eloise Tamer; Rebecca Toppa and her husband Glen; and Michael Toppa and his wife Maria, as well as being a loving grandpa to all of their children. He was also the beloved stepdad to Leigh; Marcie and Dennis; Emily and Derek and their son Tage.
John was a deeply loving and devoted husband, father, brother, and friend who cherished his family beyond measure. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a remarkable gift for making everyone around him feel valued, loved, and appreciated.
For more than forty years, he served as a clinical psychologist in private practice in Newport. He was deeply respected within his profession and profoundly appreciated by the many patients whose lives he touched throughout his career.
John enjoyed playing golf at Wanumetonomy Golf and Country Club and took great pleasure in cooking – especially his wonderful soups and family meals. Above all else, he treasured time spent with his wife and family.
Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, May 26 from 4:00-7:00pm at the O’Neill-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring St, Newport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27 at 11:00 AM, St. Mary’s Church, corner of Spring St. & Memorial Blvd, Newport. Burial will follow at St. Columba Cemetery, 465 Browns Ln, Middletown.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.
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