In Loving Memory of Father Brian Kenney (1972–2025)
Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy in Hodgenville and St. Ann in Howardstown

With deep sadness and reverence, the Archdiocese of Louisville shares the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of Father Brian Kenney, beloved pastor of Our Lady of Mercy in Hodgenville and St. Ann in Howardstown. Father Kenney passed away suddenly last night at the age of 53.

Father Kenney’s death comes as a great shock to the faithful communities he so lovingly served. A man of unwavering devotion, gentle spirit, and tireless pastoral care, Father Kenney leaves behind a legacy marked by compassion, integrity, and faith. His unexpected departure has left a void that will be deeply felt not only by his parishioners but by countless lives he touched throughout the Archdiocese and beyond.

Born in 1972, Brian Kenney answered his call to the priesthood with humility and joy. Ordained with the Archdiocese of Louisville, he embraced his vocation with a quiet but profound strength, ministering to his congregations with a deep sense of purpose and love for the people he was called to serve. His homilies were known to be thoughtful and sincere, always rooted in Scripture and offered with humility. He was a shepherd who walked alongside his flock—present in their joys, their trials, and their daily lives.

For those at Our Lady of Mercy and St. Ann, Father Kenney was more than a pastor—he was a spiritual father, a confidant, and a friend. He baptized their children, celebrated their weddings, stood by them in grief, and guided them in faith. Whether he was visiting the sick, organizing parish outreach, or quietly praying in the sanctuary, Father Kenney embodied Christ-like service.

To honor his memory and to unite in grief and prayer, Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre will join the parish community this evening, Wednesday, July 10, at 6:30 p.m., for a special Mass of Remembrance at Our Lady of Mercy. All parishioners, friends, and members of the surrounding community are invited to attend this liturgy to celebrate Father Kenney’s life and commend his soul to God.

As we mourn the loss of this faithful servant, let us remember the words he lived by—words of love, mercy, and trust in God. Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in the hope of the Resurrection and in the knowledge that Father Kenney now rests in the loving arms of the Lord he served so well.

We extend our deepest condolences to Father Kenney’s family, his parishioners, brother priests, and all who mourn his passing. Let us lift them up in prayer during this difficult time.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Please continue to pray for the repose of Father Kenney’s soul and for all those grieving this profound loss. May his memory be a blessing, and may his ministry continue to bear fruit in the hearts of those he served.