Kevin Regan, Sr., a longtime resident of Palm Beach Gardens, passed away in peace and comfort at the age of 81 on July 14, 2024. His son and daughter, Kevin and Courtney, were at the bedside throughout his last days.
Kevin was born to John and Winifred Regan on July 11, 1943 in the Queens, NY neighborhood of Jackson Heights. His parents were proud immigrants who met in NY after moving from Ireland in the 1920’s. In the late 1930’s, John and Winnie were married and began raising their family. Kevin enjoyed growing up in Queens with his older siblings, sister Geraldine and brother Jack and surrounded by a community of extended family and friends with a strong Irish influence. The streets and parks of Queens were his playgrounds in a more innocent time.
Kevin attended Catholic school in Jackson Heights during the formative years and later went to St. John's University for undergraduate studies and Adelphi University for graduate school. After a brief stint with Dean Witter, Kevin began what would be a very productive and successful 47 year career with Merrill Lynch in Palm Beach.
Kevin met his first wife, Charlene Young, in NYC and together they had two children, Kevin and Courtney. In 1970 at the age of 27, he moved his young family from New York City to Palm Beach Gardens to pursue a career opportunity at Merrill Lynch. Kevin eventually became the manager of the Palm Beach Merrill Lynch office. One of his early clients was the general manager of Channel 5 in West Palm Beach who convinced him to provide daily market updates during the news broadcasts, a side gig he enjoyed for many years. Kevin loved South Florida. He was enchanted by the more relaxed lifestyle, warm winters, and proximity to the ocean; and it was here that he spent the remainder of his life.
In the late 70’s Kevin met Barbara Ann Nobles who became his second wife. Together they raised their blended family, enjoyed the beach, and relished everything Palm Beach County had to offer. Kevin and Barbara loved to travel near and far and explored the world together often talking fondly of their travels. They faced all of life’s challenges together, living what can only be described as a great life full of adventure. Throughout, they were devoted to their children and grandchildren. Barbara became chronically ill in her last years; Kevin faced this challenge with her until she passed in 2021.
Kevin and Barbara moved to Garden Oaks in Palm Beach Gardens in 2006. Kevin was very involved in its HOA, and continued on the board as treasurer up until entering the hospital within the last two weeks. He and Barbara had many wonderful, supportive friends in Garden Oaks and thoroughly enjoyed their time in the community.
Kevin was diagnosed with cancer last year. He faced this final challenge, as he did with all of life’s challenges, with courage, dignity, and grace. He told his children and immediate family countless times over the past year how grateful he was for the wonderful life he lived and accepted the end of his life without regret. His greatest love of course was his children and grandchildren from both marriages. He was extremely proud of their accomplishments and contributions which we believe allowed him to face his last days with peace and love in his heart.
Kevin is survived by his children Kevin (Melissa) Regan, Courtney (Jeff) Bushnell; stepchildren Jim Draughon and Kevin (Neghie) Draughon; his grandchildren Alex Bushnell, Caroline Bushnell, Tallulah Regan, James Draughon, Hyden Draughon, Olivia Draughon; his sister Geraldine Mazanek and sister-in-law Karin Regan.
A celebration of Kevin’s life will take place on Sunday, July 21st from 4-6 pm at Seasons 52 Restaurant located at 11611 Ellison Wilson Road in Palm Beach Gardens.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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