Mr. Kenneth Allen Bourne, Jr., age 83, passed away on September 24, 2025, in
Baltimore, Maryland, the city where he was born and spent his life making a lasting impact.
Born on April 13, 1942, in Baltimore, Kenneth was a proud alumnus of Gilman School, graduating in 1960. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in banking and community service.
In 1968, Kenneth married Deborah Bell, with whom he shared a devoted partnership spanning more than five decades. Together they raised three children: Edward Bennett Bourne, Alison La Fiura, and Courtney Fox. Kenneth also cherished his role as grandfather to Emily Bourne, Whitney Bourne, Olivia La Fiura, Sam La Fiura, Nolan Fox, and Brady Fox.
He is also remembered by his sister Caroline Davies. He was predeceased by his parents and by his sister Virginia Nickerson.
Kenneth began his professional journey at Mercantile Bankshares in 1970. Over the years, he held numerous leadership roles including Senior Credit Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Executive Vice President, overseeing the lead bank's commercial and retail banking divisions. His dedication and expertise culminated in his role as President of PNC's Metropolitan Baltimore City division, a position he held until his retirement in March 2009. Throughout his nearly four decades in banking, Kenneth was known for his integrity and commitment to excellence.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kenneth was deeply committed to serving the Baltimore community. He served as director of Tissue Banks International, the Midtown Development Corporation, and Charlestown Retirement Community. His leadership extended to chairing Jubilee Baltimore Inc., an organization dedicated to revitalizing neighborhoods and improving lives. He also contributed his time and insight as a trustee of Gilman School-his alma mater-as well as The Walters Art Museum and the Kennedy Krieger Institute.
Kenneth's generosity extended far beyond boardrooms and institutions. Known for his selfless nature and humble demeanor, he brought warmth and humor wherever he went. He had a gift for storytelling and loved telling jokes that could light up any room. His wit was matched by a deep kindness that endeared him to all who knew him.
In his leisure time, Kenneth enjoyed golf and fishing-pastimes that reflected both his appreciation for quiet reflection and his love of camaraderie. Whether on the green or by the water's edge, he found joy in simple pleasures shared with others. In recent years, he and Deborah split their time between Baltimore and Harbour Ridge in Florida where he enjoyed golf, fishing and entertaining his family when they came to visit. He was a long standing member of The Maryland Club and The Elkridge Club,
A Celebration of Life will be held at The Elkridge Club, 6100 N. Charles St.,
Baltimore, MD 21212, on Thursday, October 9th, from 12 to 4 PM. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Jubilee Baltimore, Inc. at
www.jubileebaltimore.org/support.
Kenneth Allen Bourne, Jr.'s legacy is one of service, laughter, humility, and enduring impact. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of generosity and kindness throughout the community he so dearly loved.
www.RuckFuneralHomes.comPublished by Baltimore Sun on Oct. 1, 2025.