John J. McKenna

John J. McKenna, 77, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026.

Born August 22, 1948, the second son in a blue-collar family, John demonstrated an exceptional intellect, culminating in a Master's degree in mathematics—a field of study that, to many who knew him, suggested he was 'made a little differently.' His professional career began after being recruited by IBM as a programmer, leading him and his family to Kingston, New York, where he notably explored the town in a purple Plymouth Valiant.

In 1983, the family relocated to Cary, North Carolina, where John was a founding member of the IBM workforce at Research Triangle Park, and quickly established deep roots in the
community.

John was a devoted and active father, providing an idyllic environment for his children to grow up. From Cub Scouts, dance practice, tennis, and soccer, he often fulfilled the role of chauffeur,
dutifully loading up the blue Astro van to traverse the Southeast US, enabling his son Charles to pursue a passion for ice hockey. Years later, at a high school reunion, John reconnected with Patricia, finding a love he had long searched for. Together, they forged a new chapter, creating a home for their blended family of six children—a beautifully dysfunctional band of misfits, as they fondly called themselves—where they fostered a welcoming and fun-loving environment.  Above all, John loved to feed those he loved, a passion that served as the centerpiece of
their home, even if it was two hours late. John’s home was a gathering place for holidays, making memories centered around a menu of turkey or ham, traditional sides, and family
time spent together.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia McKenna of Cary, NC, children Cheryl (Jason) Giangregorio, of Danvers, MA; Sarah (Judd) Pinnix, of Fleetwood, NC; Sandy (Seth) Chidester, of Washington,
NH; Charles Mckenna, of Topsail Beach, NC; Jodi (Nicholas) Jeffries, of Cary, NC; and siblings Charles (Christine) McKenna, of Saugus, MA, Judith (Richard) Boyle, of Weymouth, MA, and
Karen McCollem, of Malden, MA. He leaves behind 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Edith McKenna, of Saugus, MA.
John McKenna, husband, father, and friend, will be profoundly missed

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