Robert Kernaghan

1949 - 2026

OBITUARY

Robert “Bob” Kernaghan was quite a man – steady, loving, quietly accomplished and deeply devoted to the people he cherished. After a grueling months-long battle with cancer, Bob passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026.

Born in Brooklyn and raised in Bellerose, Bob grew up in a close-knit neighborhood where faith, friendship and community shaped him. He was a parishioner and graduate of St. Gregory the Great and later Bishop Reilly High School. Following Bishop Reilly High School, Bob attended St. John’s University to prepare for a career teaching biology. At St. John’s he amazingly won a position as a walk-on member of the freshman basketball team. While attending St. John’s, Bob became the first boy's gym teacher at St. Gregory the Great grammar school. Even then, he carried himself with the quiet confidence of someone who didn’t need to boast; he simply showed up, worked hard and let his actions speak.

Bob began his career teaching regent's biology at Lindenhurst Jr. High School, where his curiosity and love of learning made him a memorable presence in the classroom. He later transitioned into the medical supply field, building a long and successful career that culminated in his retirement from Precept Medical.

Bob and his wife, Kathleen, his childhood sweetheart and partner of more than five decades, built a beautiful life together. After living in Coram, they settled in Floral Park in 1986, becoming devoted parishioners of Our Lady of Victory and active members of the community. Bob’s interests were wide-ranging: he was a life-long history buff, and in recent years enjoyed being a member of the Floral Park Public Library Urban Explorers Club. He was a gym rat in the best sense—disciplined, energized and always up for a good workout. Bob was a dog lover, boating enthusiast, loved traveling with his wife Kathleen, and especially loved any moment spent with his grandchildren. Family was the heartbeat of Bob’s life. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, his daughter, Allison Reilly and her sons, Eamon and Callum; his son Bryan, and Bryan’s children, Fiona and Robert; Bryan’s wife Dauren and their daughter, Kaylee. Bob also leaves behind numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and friends who adored him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Theresa and Robert Kernaghan.

Bob lived a wonderful, loving life—one marked by devotion, humor, intelligence and a quiet strength that lifted those around him. He was a man who approached each day with purpose, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys; a good conversation, a family gathering, a sunny day on the water, or a history book waiting to be opened. He had a good run, and he made it count. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Our Lady of Victory Church in Floral Park, with burial to follow at Holy Rood Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the New Hyde Park Funeral Home. They extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and sympathy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

Online Donations - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

VISITATION

Thursday, September 3 2:00 - 4:00 PM & 7:00 - 9:00 PM

New Hyde Park Funeral Home 506 Lakeville Road, New Hyde Park, NY

MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL

Friday, September 4 10:30 AM Our Lady of Victory R.C. Church 2 Floral Parkway, Floral Park, NY

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INTERMENT

Holy Rood Cemetery 111 Old Country Road, Westbury, NY