Richard Paul McKenna

Richard Paul McKenna, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, October 14th, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on January 18th, 1936, in Marietta, Ohio, Richard remained a lifelong resident of his cherished hometown.

Richard was a proud graduate of Marietta High School, class of 1954, and later earned a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Management from Marietta College in 1979. His professional career was marked by his role as a Certified Purchasing Manager at GE Plastics, where he was respected for his dedication and expertise.

A veteran of the United States Air Force, Richard served his country with honor and continued to demonstrate his commitment to community and service through his involvement with several organizations. He was an active member of the Elks, Shriners, Civitan, Kiwanis, and the Masonic Lodge. Richard also dedicated his time volunteering at Marietta Memorial Hospital, embodying a spirit of generosity and care for others.

Richard's love for golf was only surpassed by his love for his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Helen Marie Walters McKenna, whom he married on September 2, 1960. Together, they raised four children: Judy McKenna, Rick McKenna (Lori Webb), Cindy Kubala (Walt), and Joe McKenna (Lynette Thompson). Richard was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Leigh Ann Armistead (Tad), Jacob Lotts, Miranda McKenna (Greg Croxford), Zach McKenna (Tyler), Annie Kubala (Curtis Brown), and Jane Kubala. He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Kohen, Kam, Christopher, Kenzley, Kole, and Casen. Richard leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Edward McKenna and Edna Charlotte Young McKenna, as well as his siblings, Jack McKenna, Virginia Smith, David McKenna, and Sally Voll.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Richard's life at a visitation on Monday, October 19th, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Marietta Chapel of Cawley & Peoples Funeral Home in Marietta, Ohio. A funeral service will be held at the same location on Tuesday, October 20th, 2026, at 11:00 am, officiated by Pastor Jeremy Daniels. Burial will follow in East Lawn Memorial Park, with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Humane Society of the Ohio Valley, 90 Mt. Tom Road, Marietta, Ohio 45750, in honor of Richard's love for animals.

Richard's family would like to thank Cawley Hospice who provided such excellent help and care. They would also like to extend their gratitude to Jessica, Danielle, Lynne, Jay and Stacey for their compassionate care.

Cawley & Peoples Funeral Home is honored to serve Richard's family and offers online condolences and resources at www.CawleyandPeoples.com or through their Facebook page. Richard's legacy of love, service, and dedication will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.