The St. Joseph Church community in Garden City, New York, is united in grief following the passing of Deacon Jack McKenna, a deeply respected servant of God whose life and ministry touched countless hearts. News of his death has been met with profound sadness, as parishioners, friends, and fellow clergy reflect on a man whose faith, humility, and compassion defined his life of service.
Deacon Jack was widely known for his steady and unwavering faith. Even as he faced personal health challenges and trials, he remained anchored in hope and trust in God. Those who knew him say his quiet strength and gentle confidence were a source of comfort, particularly to those navigating difficult seasons of life. He had a rare ability to listen deeply and offer spiritual guidance without judgment, always meeting others with kindness, patience, and understanding.
Throughout his years of ministry, Deacon Jack served the Church with dedication that extended far beyond regular parish duties. At St. Joseph Church, he played an integral role in the spiritual life of the community—celebrating baptisms, officiating weddings, assisting at liturgies, and walking alongside families during times of sorrow and loss. For many parishioners, he was present during some of life’s most sacred and emotional moments, leaving a lasting imprint through his prayers and pastoral care.
His service also reached well beyond the parish. Deacon Jack was a devoted presence at Long Island National Cemetery, where he faithfully supported veterans’ families and cemetery staff with dignity and reverence. Over the years, he presided at numerous funeral services for veterans, offering words of solace, hope, and gratitude for lives of service to the nation. His calm presence and heartfelt prayers brought peace to grieving families, earning him deep respect and affection from all who worked alongside him. His absence at the cemetery will be profoundly felt.
Just weeks before his passing, Deacon Jack joined the St. Joseph parish community for the Christmas Tree Lighting on December 6, 2025. Parishioners now look back on that evening with gratitude, recognizing it as one of his final shared moments with the community he loved so dearly. His presence that night reflected the joy, faith, and sense of togetherness that he consistently fostered throughout his ministry.
A Funeral Mass in honor of Deacon Jack McKenna will be celebrated on December 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Church in Garden City. The parish has extended its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, fellow parishioners, and all those whose lives were touched by his service. The community joins together in prayer, offering thanks for his faithful witness and the love he so freely shared.
As St. Joseph Church mourns his passing, it also celebrates a life lived in service to Christ and His people. Deacon Jack McKenna will be remembered not only for the roles he fulfilled, but for the compassion, reverence, and grace with which he lived his vocation.
May his soul rest in the peace of Christ whom he served so faithfully.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.