Kenneth Walter Conway

Kenneth Walter Conway, or Kenny as he was affectionately known by his beloved family, passed peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the age of 66.

While Kenny was born with "special needs," he was far more special than he was needy. The oldest of four children born to Anita and Jim Conway, Kenny was an integral part of a busy family life that moved frequently during his father's 30-year career in the Navy, including two years in Scotland. Wherever the family went, Kenny went, too. He was present for every family celebration and quickly became a fixture at social gatherings. Kenny had a playful and sometimes mischievous sense of humor that brought great joy to all those around him. Fortunately for Kenny, his parents loved to entertain, and Kenny loved a good party.

When Kenny's father passed away in 2003, Kenny moved into a Looking Upwards group home. For the next 23 years, he was blessed with a second family made up of remarkable people who had dedicated their lives to caring for and supporting individuals like Kenny. These were happy years for him. He enjoyed a rich community life and benefited from the extraordinary care and compassion of the Looking Upwards and Maher Center families. His family will be forever grateful for the love they gave Kenny.

Kenny is predeceased by his father, Capt. James M. Conway and was survived by his mother Anita W. Conway who he predeceased by just seven days. He is survived by his siblings, Stephen Conway (Maria), Jean Conway Orth (Mike), and Camille Conway Naughton (Tim); and his six beloved nieces and nephews, whom he affectionately called his "babies": Mac Naughton (Maddie), Cassi Orth Frey (Joe), Clare Naughton, Nicole Orth Selck (Reese), Ian Conway and Madeline Conway.

Kenny's life was a gift to his family and to the many people who were fortunate enough to know him. He reminded those around him that a life does not have to be complicated to be meaningful, and that love, laughter, and connection are among life's greatest gifts.

A celebration of life service has been planned together for Kenny and his mother, Anita Conway, who passed away so close together. That service will be held on Saturday, October 10 at 11am at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 525 Broadway, Newport RI, 02840. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Looking Upwards in Kenny's memory at www.lookingupwards.org.