J. Ryder Kenney, Jr.

J. Ryder Kenney, Jr. 76, of Narragansett, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2018 surrounded by his loving family.  He was the beloved husband of 47 years to Judith (Van Orden) Kenney. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late Joseph R. Kenney Sr. and Margaret (Harty) Kenney O'Rourke. Ryder was a graduate of Hope High School, Bryant College and New England School of Law. He also served in the US Navy. Ryder was an all state hockey player, an avid golfer, and a great story teller.

Ryder began his law career as a public defender and later went on to private practice. Ryder enjoyed building and renovating homes and he was undaunted by the scale of any construction project.

Throughout his life, Ryder dedicated himself to his family. Besides his wife he is survived by his loving children, Susan E. Kenney of NY, J. Ryder Kenney III of FL and Vanessa J. Petrella and her husband James of Cranston. Ryder was also the brother of Martha Parker, Elizabeth Dubois, Margaret Driscoll, Denis Kenney, Paul Kenney, Edward Kenney and Dorothy Mahoney. He was also loving brother-in-law, and uncle to many.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday at 11 am in St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, Pt. Judith Rd., Narragansett.  His burial will be private.  VISITING HOURS: Tuesday 4-7 pm in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Ave., Cranston.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Alzheimer’s Association, 245 Waterman Ave., Providence, RI 02906.