Gregory W. McKenna

Gregory W. McKenna, 74, a lifelong resident of Westerly passed away on December 11, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Greg is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Marilyn (Smith) McKenna. He was a loving stepfather to Kara Strout of Westery, RI; Jeremy Rathbun of New Hampshire; and Jesse Rathbun, (Anne) of Westerly, RI. He was a grandfather to six grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Greg was a wonderful brother to Marylen McKenna of Saunderstown, RI; Roberta Palmer (Bill) of Westerly and Ward McKenna (MaryBeth) of Exeter RI. Greg was predeceased by his brother Keven A. McKenna. He was a favorite uncle to his many nieces and nephews and grand-nieces and nephews.

Greg was born in Westerly to the late Eugene W. and Rita (Alexander) McKenna. As a boy scout, he attained the rank of Eagle Scout, and later became a leader for Troop 10. Greg graduated from Westerly High School and excelled in athletics, breaking the state record for discus throwing. During summers, Greg was a lifeguard at Misquamicut State Beach. He furthered his education earning his Associate’s Degree in Art from the Community College of RI as well as graduating from the George Vespers School of Art, Boston.

Greg was a member of the AFL-CIO machinist union at Cottrell/Harris and later applied his skills as a pipe fitter and draftsman at Electric Boat, Groton, CT where he worked until his retirement.

Greg will be remembered for his kindness, his patience and sense of humor. All whose lives he touched are richer for having known him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 10 am at Immaculate Conception Church, 111 High Street, Westerly. There will be no procession from the funeral home. Burial will be private. Funeral services are under the direction of Rushlow-Iacoi Funeral Home & Crematory, 64 Friendship Street, Westerly.

For online condolences, please go to www.rushlowiacoifuneralhome.com