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Jeffery Kenney Obituary
Shelburne, MA - Jeffery E. "Jeff" Kenney, Sr., 73, passed away unexpectedly on his birthday Saturday, February 24, 2024.
Jeff was born in Greenfield on February 24, 1951 the son of Claude and Gertrude Fay (Warnock) Kenney. He received a Bachelor's degree from Springfield College and later received a Masters degree from UMass Amherst.
Jeff was an educator and administrator for 42 years and his passion was teaching 8th grade science. He was a wonderful mentor to many teachers, new administrators and students alike. The bulk of his career was spent with the Gill-Montague school district. While teaching he was also a coach for the football and track and field teams.
He had been playing music professionally, the majority of his life. He has played in numerous bands most recently "Haven't a Clue" and "The Boys of 69". He was lead singer and guitarist. Music was his passion, writing and playing his own music as well as cover songs.
Jeff's family was his greatest joy. He enjoyed going fishing with his son Jeff and brother Buzz, kayaking with his wife Lisa, camping in the Outer Banks North Carolina, watching his granddaughters play softball and volleyball, spending time with his many grandchildren and great grandchildren telling jokes and having fun, baking many tasty treats for his family on the holidays especially Christmas, and much more. He loved New England Patriots football, watching every game and texting with his Patriots text group.
Jeff touched the lives of many and was loved by all. He had a kind heart and a generous spirit and will be sorely missed. Jeff was an amazing husband, partner, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and true friend.
Jeff was predeceased by his parents, his wife Lisa (Verville) Kenney, and brother Claude "Buzz" Kenney, Jr.
He is survived by his children; Ann Berthiaume, Jeffery Kenney Jr., Jennifer Thompson, Jessica Greene, Colby Greene, close family friend and "daughter" Tammy Johnson, his partner Donna Fitzpatrick, many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brothers Bruce and Gerald Kenney, sisters Cynthia King and Susan Kenney, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
It was Jeff's wish that his services be private for his family.
To send messages of condolence or to share a memory of Jeff, please visit www.smithkelleherfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jeffery Kenney
Jason Milanesi
November 23, 2024
I just happened to see this when singing a song with my 10 year old son this morning that Mr. Kenny had taught me back in middle school (the planet song and that's a very good thing to know). So sad he's departed but looking back he was an AMAZING teacher who cared for his students. I remember when my grandfather died in 8th grade and he showed up to offer his condolences. He was an amazing and impactful teacher and person. I'm honored to have been in his class:)
Brittany Rawson
March 5, 2024
i remember just passing him in the halls of the highschool and he would just make your day a whole lot better he would make you laugh all the time and he was a good guy he will truly be missed
Jack Czajkowski
March 2, 2024
Jeffrey Kenney was my cooperating teacher at Great Falls. He had a way of elevating everyone he worked with. All of his students loved his songs and sense of humor. He was firm yet very fair with all of his teacher moves.
I will forever be in his debt. He taught me how to teach.
My love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Linda Nutter
February 29, 2024
Jeff was a good friend and we have stayed in touch over the years even though I haven't been to Mass. is some time. Such wonderful memories of him from our days in high school. Will be missed a lot.
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Kate
February 29, 2024
My deep condolences to the family and loved ones. I have fond memories of Mr. Kenney from middle school, he was a wonderful teacher and a kind soul.
Tony Hanna
February 29, 2024
With a deep sense of loss and condolences to family and friends I think of Jeff. Probably the most wonderful guy I have ever known. So many great memories of our time together as school colleagues and band mates. One big thing sticks out, Jeff´s commitment to children.
He always considered the students needs above all else. Always looking for ways to make the school work for the most challenged kids.
Farewell and Rock on Brother
Angela
February 28, 2024
I'm so sorry to hear of mr. Kennys passing. My condolences goes out to the family. Mr. Kenny was the best teacher i had ever had at great falls/turners falls he will be missed.i had him as a teacher years ago.
Karen Greene
February 28, 2024
My sincere condolences to Jeff´s family and friends. He will be sorely missed. He made a huge difference in so many lives including mine. My classmate, my dear friend, It´s never goodbye, but see you later.
Karen
Donna Flagg
February 28, 2024
My condolences to the entire Kenny family.
Christine (Kennedy) Hunsicker
February 27, 2024
My deepest sympathy and condolences. He was one of my greatest teachers!
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Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home - Shelburne Falls40 Church St, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370
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