A great guy and a good friend.  Knew each other a long time.  Always made it a point to talk on Veteran’s Day.  Just found out today.  Rest in peace

I just learned of Bill's passing and I'm still mourning his loss. He was a great DEA Agent, but even more so, a great friend. A one of a kind individual who was always willing to help others. The country has lost a true hero. 

I worked on a few things with Billy during my career with another agency and to say Billy made life interesting is an understatement.  May he rest in peace and may his family be consoled during this difficult time.  

I was a new Agent in NYC when Billy was mid way through his career in NJ. I worked with him a number of times and it didn't take long to realize he was an Agent of top caliber. His name alone was legendary and I had heard stories of his exploits long before I met him. On top of being a great Agent he was a wonderful human being and I enjoyed every minute working with him. Heaven is better off having him there.

I had the pleasure of first meeting Billy when I was newly assigned to the Newark office in 1994 as SAC. He and Ron Brogan helped me unload a Uhaul truck of furniture for my temporary rental quarters. Bill had a ponytail back then and looked like an aging hippie from the 60s. My teenaged daughter thought he was "cool" and asked why other DEA agents, including me, were not as cool as he was! Over the next few years I would get to know Bill and understand what a fine agent he was. He was always a trusted friend and, above all, a dedicated and patriotic American. My condolences to his family and loved ones. May he rest in peace.

My sincerest best wishes to the Kean family on the loss of a true hero. I had the pleasure of working with Bill on many great cases. He was a  true gentleman in every sence of the word. I am a better man for having known Bill and counted him as a true friend and pal. Rest in eternal peace Bill, you ran the good race.

I was a young DEA agent in Philly in 83 and I looked up to Billy. He was great agent that even the bad guys respected when he locked them up. He had his own way of doing things and it always led to great cases. He had more sources of information than anyone in the office. He was good man.  Gave me great advice I carried throughout my career! RIP 

I was a neighbor of "Billy from Philly" for several years when  moved into The Villages of Flowers Mill, just opposite of my home. I hadn't heard from him for some time, but we used to  go out for dinner once in awhile. He always would work the conversation around to his past Vietnam or DEA days. I enjoyed his reliving those times with us. I know he faced danger in both areas! He is an American hero! I salute him and I am proud to have known him! Rest in peace, "Billy from Philly." Amen

The Kean Family:Iris, Leea, Christine, Alexis  I offer my deepest sympathy and condolences for your loss.  Billy was one of a kind.  He was a mentor,  partner, friend and teacher to many.  I was fortunate to have shared countless experiences that included international travel, trips to the Poconos, fishing in the keys, construction work and dining with the most interesting friends and criminals.  Bill had an unparalleled sense of humor and was always willing to give his 2 cents on any issue.  He spoke often of the family and regularly provided updates as the proud father he was.  Thanks for sharing him with us.  His presence, sense of humor and friendship will be dearly missed.  God bless.     

Bill was a great Agent but an even better friend. Deepest condolences to the entire family.

Billy from Philly was one of a kind and one of the best DEA agents I have ever known . He had street smarts that were unparalleled along with a fearless mentality and spirit. It was an honor knowing and working with him. Rest in Eternal Peace, Brother! My sincerest condolences to the family.

A war hero, both in Vietnam and in the war on illegal drugs, Bill faithfully served our country. My condolences to his sad, but no doubt proud family.

On behalf of the Bray family, please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of Bill. Although our visits are few, we always looked forward to spending time with Bill and the entire Kean family. Our love to all, Lynn, Donna, Stacie and family 

We offer the family of Bill our deepest sympathy and prayers at this difficult time of sorrow.  We will miss seeing Bill at Mass with us.  Praise God He is in glory in the loving presence of God.

To the Kean Family: please accept my deepest sympathies for your loss. Bill and I worked together at DEA. He was a great agent and friend. We had many laughs together. Prayers and condolences for family and friends. ❤

They broke the mold with Billy. He was my partner, friend, and mentor.We shared MANY adventures together.  A decorated Vietnam veteran. (2 bronze stars with V device). His wit and intelligence were unmatched. My condolences to his family, he talked about them so much that I felt I knew them. My son's most memorable time with Bill was when he showed him how to eat a worm! I'm sure he's up above keeping everybody in stitches.  

Lex, Christine, Leea, and family:You are all on our hearts.  We're so sorry to hear of your dad's passing.  Please know that we are praying for all of you and sending hugs. 

He and I were saddened to hear of Bill's passing. He was a funny guy, although he knew how to be serious when he needed to be. He thought the world of his children. He will be missed. Our prayers are for the entire family.

My thoughts and prayers to Iris, Leea, Christine, Alexis and all family. I have many good memories of Mr. Kean. I spent MANY hours at the Kean household as a child and joined in on some of their family parties, outings, camping and Pocono trips. The only fish I ever caught was with Mr. Kean! A lot of love in that family and home. What a remarkable life he lived. I am sorry for your heartache. He will be missed and remembered ♥

Our thoughts remain with you and your family at this time. We are honored by the trust and confidence you have placed in us during this difficult time.- The Staff of James J. Dougherty Funeral Home

OBITUARY

William B. Kean III

April 26, 1945 – October 13, 2020

James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc.

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services