Edward Joseph Kenney, Jr.

Edward J. Kenney (Ed) of McLean VA died unexpectedly at his home on April 19, 2025. Born July 29, 1956 in Cumberland, MD, to Edward and Wanda Kenney, he grew up with his four sisters and two brothers in the nearby town of Lonaconing, where he graduated from Valley High and VoTech school. Soon after moving to northern Virginia a mutual friend introduced him to his future wife, Kirsten. They married in 1982 and raised two children in McLean.

Music was the rhythm of Ed’s life. At 13 he learned to play guitar with his dad and became quite accomplished. Ed brought joy and harmony to many gatherings with his voice and guitar, each played with passion and soul. His band The Fretwalkers, played gigs at a local country club and made holidays, reunions, and weddings of family and friends unforgettable.

Ed liked to work on projects and he tackled each one with precision – a swing set and sliding board, a doll house, garden beds, an herb drying rack, a Martin birdhouse, or a rabbit hutch – there was always a project being built in the basement. He was a regular fix-it kind of guy and could repair anything that was broken. This continued after his 2010 retirement from FedEx when he naturally sought out a job at McLean Hardware to occupy his time. He enjoyed helping customers with their household projects and repairs and they and staff appreciated him for his extensive knowledge and his friendly manner. Similarly, the neighbors often turned to Ed for his expert advice on house maintenance. Ed was also a devoted member of the AV team at Lewinsville Church where he was often problem solving and fine-tuning the sound system.

In retirement he and Kirsten embraced their love of travel and explored the world together. But the most cherished times were spent with his treasured grandchildren, in Virginia, Seattle, San Diego, and on family vacations to Ocracoke.

Ed’s gentle nature, easy going style, calm friendly demeanor, and thoughtful kindness will be missed by everyone who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife Kirsten; children Joseph (Tara) and Elizabeth (Michael); grandchildren Declan, Avery, Truett, Landon, and Leo; his mother, Wanda; siblings Joy, Mary, Kathy, Beth, Pat, and Matt; their spouses, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday May 31 at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA. Memorials may be made to the Lewinsville Presbyterian Church Foundation, the International Rescue Committee, or a charity of your choice.