James Warren Kenney Sr.

Jim was born on March 22, 1938, in Shanghai, China, to Rear Admiral Edward C. Kenney and Helen Ruth Dern Kenney. His life began with a story few could claim—arriving in a foreign land after his pregnant mother and older sister made a long and difficult journey across the Pacific

Ocean. The first boy born in the new County Hospital Shanghai, he thrived under the care of a devoted Chinese “amah”. When World War II reshaped the world, his father went off to serve, and his mother returned to Long Beach, California with their children, beginning new lives defined by resilience and change during difficult times.

Growing up as a proud “Navy brat,” Jim learned early how to adapt, form friendships quickly, and embrace each new chapter with confidence and curiosity. He graduated from Chevy Chase High School in Bethesda, Maryland in 1956 and soon after enlisted in the United States Navy. While preparing for an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, a devastating football injury changed his path, leading to a long recovery at Bethesda Naval Hospital. True to his nature, Jim met adversity with determination, ultimately returning to service and completing his enlistment aboard a submarine as a seaman.

He went on to attend the University of Maryland, where he studied Government and Politics and immersed himself in campus life. A natural leader, he served as president of both his fraternity, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, and the Inter-fraternity Council, building friendships that would last a lifetime.

After graduation in 1963, Jim answered the call to serve once again—this time as an officer in the United States Air Force. His assignments took him from the United States to Europe before deploying to Vietnam, where he served as a covert intelligence officer. His work required sharp instincts, courage, and unwavering focus, and for his service he was awarded the Bronze Star. He completed his military career with the rank of Captain.

Following his time in the Air Force, Jim briefly worked in the legal field for famed defense attorney, F. Lee Bailey, before achieving a lifelong goal: becoming a Special Agent with the FBI. His early assignments took him to Buffalo, New York City and Fort Lauderdale, FL but it was in San Antonio, Texas, where he would ultimately build his life and legacy. Over a distinguished career, Jim served many roles-investigator, media liaison, hostage negotiator, and specialist in advanced interview techniques. He had a rare ability to read people, understand their stories, and seek truth with both skill and humanity. After retiring from the FBI in 1990, he opened his business, James W Kenney, Interests, and continued his work as a private investigator and trusted contractor for several government agencies.

In 1973, Jim married Nancy, the love of his life and his perfect partner in adventure. Their story began with a blind date and quickly grew into a lifelong bond marked by devotion, laughter, and shared experiences across the globe. Together they built a home filled with love and raised two sons, Christopher and James Jr., who were the pride of his life.

Jim embraced life fully, especially when it came to the open road. A passionate motorcyclist, he rode across all 50 states as well as Canada and Mexico, often alongside close friends and, later, with his son, Christopher. He was a dedicated member of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association and became a motorcycle safety instructor, committed to helping others ride wisely and safely. For Jim, the road was not just a destination, it was freedom, reflection, and joy.

His love of history, particularly the Old West, became one of his most meaningful pursuits. After discovering a Congressional record of Medal of Honor recipients, Jim began quietly researching and locating the graves of forgotten heroes. Drawing on his investigative background, he helped identify previously unmarked graves, including those of Simon Suhler and George Krause Kitchen in San Antonio. Through his efforts, these men—and many others—were properly recognized and honored. It was work he undertook not for recognition, but out of deep respect for those who had served.

Jim’s passion led him to build an extensive collection of Medal of Honor books, medals, and memorabilia. In 1996, seeking to ensure its preservation, he donated the collection to Fort Chadbourne in Coke County, Texas. There, it became a centerpiece of the fort’s Medal of Honor exhibit in their museum. The exhibit continues to grow, educate and inspire visitors while honoring the legacy of America’s heroes.

He was a man of many interests and deep convictions. He valued history, learning, and meaningful conversation. He enjoyed golf, a competitive game of cribbage, and reading—especially anything related to submarines. He was a proud member of the Masonic community and the Order of the Indian Wars, where he continued to explore and study western history with others who shared his passion.

Above all, Jim was a man who cared deeply about people. He was a mentor, a guide, and a steady presence to many family, friends, and even those whose lives intersected with his under difficult circumstances. He believed in second chances, in quiet acts of kindness, and in doing what was right, even when no one was watching.

Jim often said, “It’s not the dates on a headstone that matter most, it’s the dash between them.” He lived his “dash” with purpose, integrity, courage, and love.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Nancy; his sons, Christopher Kenney and James Kenney Jr.; and his cherished grandchildren, Dylan, Cora, and Gunner. He also leaves behind extended family and countless friends whose lives were made better because of him.

Jim will be remembered for his steady strength, his sharp mind, his adventurous spirit, and the kindness that defined him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the history he preserved, and the love he gave so freely.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 5:00-7:00 p.m., at Porter Loring Mortuary 1101 McCullough San Antonio, Tx 78212.

Interment will take place on Monday, March 23, 2026, 10:00 a.m., at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Pavilion 1, 1520 Harry Wurzbach San Antonio Tx 78209