Kevin J. McKeown

Kevin J. McKeown, affectionately known to his friends and family as the unofficial Mayor of Sound Beach, passed away on June 6, 2026 at the age of 85. Kevin was extremely proud of his Irish Catholic heritage, adored his family and friends, and lived a life of dedicated service. Kevin was born in the Mott Haven section of the Bronx on the 4th of July, 1940 to Irish immigrants Gerald and Mary McKeown and met the “love of his life” Mary McKeown in 1958. He and Mary wed in 1961 and were happily married for 65 years. He was a loving father of three sons – Kevin (DeLane), John (Elyse), and the late Joe McKeown and cherished grandfather of Brook, the late Connor, Kevin III, Matthew, Caroline, and Jake. He was also a dear brother of Gerri (Frank) Lynch and Eileen (Ted) Hudock.

Kevin was a dedicated veteran of the Vietnam War serving in the United States Navy for 10 years. Upon leaving the Navy, Kevin joined the Commercial Union Insurance Company where he worked as a Risk Control Manager for over 30 years. He and Mary moved to Sound Beach, New York in the early 1970’s where they raised their family and became active members of the local community. Kevin emphasized the importance of “always showing up” and supporting his family, friends, neighbors and serving those in need. He served on the board of the North Shore Little League, was one of the founding members and later an active parishioner/usher of the St. Louis de Montfort Church, as a volunteer at Hope House Ministries, and as an active member of the Sound Beach Civic Association. He also stayed connected to his fellow military service members through his participation in the Rocky Point VFW Post 6249 and through the Tin Can Sailors group where he served as Treasurer.

Kevin was a beloved uncle and friend to many and was especially known for his kind demeanor, positive outlook on life, and the “gift of gab” – always conversing and embracing people with love and compassion.

The family wishes to express special thanks to the Good Shepherd Hospice, Mather Hospital, Stony Brook University Hospital, and the Long Island Veterans State Home for the loving care they provided.

The McKeown family will receive friends and family at the Branch Funeral Home in Miller Place on Friday, June 12th with visiting hours from 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Louis de Montfort Church in Sound Beach at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 13th followed by a burial at the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Coram. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the St. Louis de Montfort Church Outreach Program or to Hope House Ministries.