Evan Michael Kennedy

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Evan Michael Kennedy (February 8, 1994 – November 11, 2024), beloved son, brother, and grandson, at the age of 30.

Evan was born on February 8, 1994, in Ballinahown, Ireland, and moved to Long Island, New York, in June 1994. Since birth, Evan woke up every morning with a giant smile—the biggest, devilish grin—showing his tenacity for life, unwavering happiness, and positive spirit.

Evan left an impression on everyone he met throughout his life. He was known for his infectious smile and boisterous laugh that lit up any room, especially when he told a joke that he was incredibly proud of or heard jokes, how opinionated he was, and, for some who were lucky to witness, how giddy he would get after cursing out people who usually deserved it. He’d love to go to concerts, sing his heart out, and dance along to his favorite bands of all time: U2 and the Script.

Evan’s favorite shows were 24 and Father Ted. Thanks to the Make–A–Wish Foundation, he was even lucky enough to meet Kiefer Sutherland, who played Jack Bower, and other cast members of 24. He even practiced jujitsu. He loved animation and art and was an amateur animation artist himself. He loved all-you-can-eat sushi and margaritas. Most of all, his favorite activity and what he looked forward to annually was going to camp, where he would play pranks, participate in sports, make arts and crafts, and spend time with his best friends.

He loved visiting Ireland with his Granny, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was a bright light in the lives of all who knew him and had an unwavering love for his family and friends. He cherished the moments spent with them, whether sharing stories or simply enjoying time together, even just by the porch looking at the sunset.

Evan lived with cerebral palsy throughout his life, but it was never the defining factor of who he was. Instead, his different ableness was his resilience, unimaginable strength against anything that came his way, and unwavering spirit that shaped his remarkable journey. His strength, positivity, and facing life head-on are how we will honor and carry his legacy and spirit forward.

Cherished Evan, also lovingly nicknamed “Baby Bird,” is survived by his loving parents, mother, Gail Kennedy, father, Padriac Kennedy, and his beloved brother, Dylan Kennedy, and sister-in-law Trish; his dearest Granny Katie, 95; all his aunties: Catherine, Anne, Siobhan, and Evelyn; his uncles: Frank, Francis, Paul, and Fergal, and very much loved cousins: Kathryn, Conor, Shane, Keith, Ciara, Clodagh, Tara, Gemma, Kyle, Liane, Kayla, and Callum; his godfather Gerard Coughlan, and also all the other surrogate aunties, uncles, second cousins and the dear friendships he forged throughout his journey.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing that Evan's love, which he had so much to give, will forever be with us.

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Additional:

In honor of Evan Michael Kennedy, to carry his memory forward, instead of (or in addition to) flowers, please send donations to the organizations and camps that cared for Evan throughout his life; these organizations have provided care for those with special needs throughout his life and brought him joy.

Rising Treetops Camp: In Honor of Evan

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Southampton Fresh Air Home

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Thank you so much for your support and love while carrying his legacy, strength, and positive spirit forward during this grief. We appreciate you 💗

A visitation for Evan will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes, 125 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801. A visitation will occur Friday, November 15, 2024 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, 125 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801. A funeral mass will occur Saturday, November 16, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Bernard's Roman Catholic Church, 3100 Hempstead Tpke, Levittown, NY 11756.