George Walter Kenny, Jr. Obituary (1932

George W. Kenny Jr. 92, of Sumter Street, Charleston, SC, entered into eternal rest on February 25, 2025. Mr. Kenny lived a long, full, exciting life having been a veteran, an educator, a mentor, performing on countless occasions, featured in books, magazines and newspaper articles and the recipient of many awards and honors. Mr. Kenny touched many lives and never considered his profession as a band director a job always saying that he loved to get up every day and go to work. After graduating from Burke High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. His overseas tour was spent playing for the U.S.O. Shows in Korea. After his military service, Mr. Kenny entered South Carolina State College and graduated with a degree in Music Education. He dedicated thirty-two years as a band director in Charleston County Schools, teaching at institutions including Laing High School, C. A. Brown High School (where he created both the music program and band), Burke High School, Courtney Middle School, and the Jenkins Orphanage. Over his career as a performer, he has played at most of the major hotels and resort areas. He also had the opportunity to perform with musical legends such as Lou Rawls, Dizzy Gillespie, and Teddy Pendergrass. He also appeared at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, MOJA Arts Festival and with numerous jazz musicians throughout Charleston. He was also a long-time member of the David Archer Band. Mr. Kenny attended Calvary Episcopal Church in Charleston where directed the Melody Chimes Choir. He was a member of several band and musician associations and a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. On October 18, 2024, to celebrate and appreciate his contributions to the arts over a distinguished career spanning more than five decades, Mr. Kenny was the recipient of the Tip of the Hat Award at The Charleston Jazz Gala. Mr. Kenny was married to Betty R. Kenny for 65 years prior to her death in 2020. He was also preceded in death by his parents Mr. and Mrs. George and Mosella Kenny Sr. and his sister Claire K. Washington. Mr. Kenny leaves to cherish his memories: his sister Doris K. Coaxum-Sanders (Bob), brother-in-law Harold Washington Sr., nieces and nephews, grand and great grand nieces and nephews, friends, former students, band mates, and the community.