Patrick Terrance McKenny

Patrick Terrance McKenny, age 81, of Millis, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. Born on September 3, 1944 in Passaic, NJ, he was a man whose roots ran deep in the home town that shaped him and whose heart belonged to those he held dear.

For more than 75 years, Patrick called Passaic home. There, he attended Pope Pius High School, married his beloved wife of 57 years, the late Marta (Benczedi) McKenny, and had a daughter who he loved dearly. He also worked as a painter at Kearfott Corporation Guidance and Navigation Division in Totowa, New Jersey for many years, a job which he was very proud to serve. In his later years, he made the move to Millis to be closer to family, a decision that allowed him to be active in the lives of his daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Patrick was a man of deep convictions and passionate interests. A proud Republican, he never shied away from a spirited political debate. Those conversations, animated and heartfelt, were just another way he showed how much he cared about the future he was leaving for his family and country. An avid history buff, Patrick could transport you to another era with his stories. When discussing World War II specifically, he had an encyclopedic knowledge that made the past come alive. He loved watching history documentaries, and his enthusiasm was inspiring.

Sports were another of Patrick's great loves. A devoted fan of the NY Jets and NY Mets, he lived and breathed every game and season. His loyalty to his teams was unwavering, and he always knew the latest stats, scores and history of the sports he enjoyed. With an optimist's heart, Patrick was also a faithful lottery player, always believing that this week's ticket might be the lucky one. His scratch-offs and weekly numbers were not just about winning: they represented his hopeful spirit and his dreams of what he might do for his family if fortune smiled his way.

But above all else, Patrick's greatest treasure was his family. He was a proud and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his daughter Tracy (McKenny) O'Kane and her husband Philip, four grandchildren Amanda and her husband Todd, Kaleigh, Brendan and his fiancée Noelle, and Daniel, and two great-grandchildren, Aiden and Miles.

He is also survived by two sisters, Rose Marie and Kathleen McKenny, both of Clifton, New Jersey, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was the brother of the late Daniel, Francis, Ronald and Garry McKenny, and Eleanor Rannazzisi, and Marilyn O'Connor.

Those who knew Patrick will remember him for his storytelling, sense of humor, generosity, and love of family and country.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Mass on Thursday, December 18 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 82 Exchange St. in Millis at 11 a.m.

Burial will take place privately in St. Nicholas Cemetery in Lodi, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Patrick's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/ and https://thon.org/

Funeral arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber St. in Medway ginleyfuneralhomes.com