Katherine "Kay" L. Kenny

Katherine L. Kenny (born on December 26, 1924) the beloved daughter of Thomas C. and Margaret (Ronan) Kenny entered into eternal rest on February 16th, 2016.

A lifelong resident of Stoneham, Kay attended St. Patrick's High School and St. John's Hospital School of Nursing in Lowell, graduating in 1945. She was predeceased by her brothers Rev. Thomas C. Kenny, OSA (2008) of Merrimack College and Villanova University, PA; Robert W. Kenny (2015) of San Jose, CA and Richard J. Kenny of Weston, CT (2001). Many caring nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished friends, as well as her loyal friend Irma L. Meuse SP of Stoneham, will dearly miss her. All have fond memories of Kay as a special, caring, loving and giving person.

Kay was a devoted nurse who began her exceptional career in the World War II Nursing Cadet Corp, working at the Fort Deven's Hospital for returning wounded military personnel. Her exemplary nursing career continued at Winchester Hospital in the Delivery and Nursery units. In 1947 she traveled to Riverside, California to work at the Riverside Community Hospital. Kay returned to her beloved Boston in 1949 and to Private Duty Nursing. She worked for two years for the Boston V.N.A. and at the Soldiers' Home in Chelsea. She then returned to the town of Stoneham to work as a Board of Health nurse for 34 years and also as a school nurse for St. Patrick's School. After her Stoneham retirement, she worked at the Little Sisters' of the Poor in Somerville. Kay always loved and respected her work and was very proud to serve in her professional capacity. Over the years, Kay cared for and touched the lives of many appreciative patients, especially family members and those with special needs.

In 1987, the town of Stoneham awarded Kay the distinguished "Woman of the Year" award for her outstanding personal and medical support to the citizens of Stoneham. It was a title of which she was particularly proud. She was especially involved in many and varied charitable activities and excelled in her community efforts. In February 2006 Kay received the distinguished award as an Affiliate Member of the Augustinian Order. This award recognized her close relationship and dedication to the Augustinian Order of Merrimack Valley of North Andover.

Ms. Kenny relied on her Christian ideals and her strong Catholic faith that gave her comfort and peace throughout her life of good works. Her life and love centered around her family and friends and she brought much warmth and love to all. She was a constructive role model and her love was pure and unconditional. She was that one person you always knew was there for you. Wholeheartedly compassionate and thoughtful, Kay's warm spirit, good will, sense of humor and smile touched everyone around her. Kay carried out life to the fullest and all those who experienced her loving spirit will forever miss her bright presence and strength. She was a very independent woman who left a wonderful legacy of love and true devotion.

Funeral from the Barile Family Funeral Home 482 Main St. (RT28) STONEHAM on Monday February 22nd, 2016 at 9am followed by a Funeral Mass Celebrating Kay's Eternal Life in St. Patrick's Church 71 Central Street, Stoneham at10am. Family and friends are cordially invited to gather and share memories with the family on Sunday February 21st, 2016 from 2-6pm in the funeral home. Parking attendants and elevator available. Interment at Lindenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Kay's memory to St. Patrick's Church Building Fund, 71 Central Street, Stoneham, MA 02180.