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03/14/2017 12:00 AM


Patrick ‘Pat’ Kevin Kinney

Patrick “Pat” Kevin Kinney, 51, of Guilford died March 8, peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a brave battle with cancer. He will be remembered as a courageous warrior, dauntless in search of a way to remain with his family here on earth. He is survived by his devoted wife Paula and their cherished daughters Emily and Nell.

Pat was the youngest of the twelve children of the late Frank J. Kinney, Jr., and Ellen “Nell” (née O’Donnell) Kinney of Branford. His mother Nell passed just one day before Patrick on March 7, preparing a place for him in heaven and greeting her son Pat alongside his father Frank and brother Donald.

Pat was a co-founder of Gaffney Bennett Public Relations, where he was a much-loved and respected friend, mentor, and partner during his 15 years at the firm. With his engaging manner and quick wit, Pat could readily turn a business introduction into a long-standing friendship with nearly everyone he met.

He joined Gaffney Bennett from Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide/New York, where he was a senior vice president in the corporate practice. Over his more than 25 years of work in the public relations industry, Pat provided communications counsel to some of the world’s most respected brands and was especially respected for his skill in matters of crisis communications, media relations, and public issues management. Patrick earned his B.A. at Villanova University.

Pat was blessed with true friendships and people were always drawn to his passion for life, infectious humor, dedication to family, and his interest in all things sport, whether it be hockey—Yale or GHS, the Yankees, the Villanova Wildcats, or watching with the boys at Augur’s Irish Pub. Pat was especially proud to be first-generation Australian (his mother Nell was born in North Queensland, Australia) and Pat will be sadly missed by his family and mates “down under.”

Grieving their youngest brother are Frank (Lois) Kinney of Branford, Mary “Mimi” (Wayne) Fox of Stamford, Bill (Marylin) Kinney of East Dorset, Vermont, Kathleen (Bob) Xeller of Branford, John (Regina) Kinney of Seymour, Jim (Lois) of Clinton, Michael Kinney of Branford, Tom Kinney of New Haven, Dan Kinney of Branford, and Stephen (Terri) Kinney of Old Saybrook.

Uncle Pat was dearly loved by his many nieces and nephews, each with a favorite memory of fun forever in their heart.

Visitation was March 12 at Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St., Guilford. The funeral Mass was celebrated on March 13 at St. George Catholic Church, 33 Whitfield St., Guilford. Burial was held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the “Patrick Kinney Children’s Education Fund,” c/o Webster Bank, 387 N. River St., Guilford, CT 06437. To share a memory or leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.GuilfordFuneralHome.com.