Kenneth Scott A. Finnell

United States Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Kenneth Scott A. Finnell, Aviation Structural Mechanic, passed away on February 8, 2024, from service-connected melanoma.  

Finnell was raised in a middle-class, hardworking family with patriotic parents who instilled strong family values. The youngest of three, he was a true Long Island and Patchogue boy, with a deep sense of pride in his hometown and community. Family was the foundation of his life, and when he wasn’t spending time with loved ones, he could often be found pursuing his passion for cars and drifting or enjoying a game on Xbox. Inspired by a proud family tradition of service, with his father and two uncles having served in the Navy, Finnell followed in their footsteps and enlisted in the Navy on July 23, 1997. 

Finnell’s distinguished Navy service was marked by exceptional dedication and a steadfast commitment to duty. In recognition of his contributions, he received numerous awards and decorations, including the Navy Unit Commendation, two Navy Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, the NATO Medal, and the Navy Rifle and Pistol Marksmanship Medal. Each honor stands as a testament to his professionalism, character, and service to the nation. 

Deeply proud of his Navy service, Finnell also found a meaningful outlet for his creativity through art. During his time in the military, he designed logos, painted aircraft, and created murals on base, leaving his mark both professionally and artistically. His passion for art remained a lifelong pursuit, eventually leading him to channel his talent into painting and customizing cars, combining his creativity with his love of the automotive world. 

Finnell met the love of his life, Angelamarie (Angela), while working in Phoenix. Their chance meeting grew into a remarkable partnership defined by love, loyalty, and a deep appreciation for one another. Together, they shared a lifetime of adventures, laughter, and meaningful traditions, creating memories that would be cherished for years to come. From celebrating their wedding on April 16, 2013, to their annual tradition of watching Office Space every February 27th, their relationship was marked by joy in both life’s milestones and its simplest moments. 

One of Finnell’s greatest joys was his family. He was a proud father to his oldest daughter, Kayla, and later welcomed McKenzie. Before his passing, he had the blessing of becoming a grandfather to Kayla’s daughter, Genesis. Following his passing, his family grew once more with the birth of another grandchild, Armani. In a cherished reminder of her father’s service and sacrifice, Kayla was entrusted with his Navy jacket, a treasured keepsake she will hold close alongside many memories of the man she loved. 

Finnell leaves behind a legacy that inspires others to pursue their passions fearlessly, embrace every opportunity, and find happiness in life. One of his greatest passions was drifting, and the drift car he proudly worked to complete stands as a lasting symbol of that dedication. One day, it will be passed down to his daughter, McKenzie, allowing a piece of her father’s passion and spirit to continue with her. 

Finnell’s presence remains deeply woven into the fabric of his family’s lives. His photographs fill their home, serving as daily reminders of the love, laughter, and memories they shared. His family honors him in countless meaningful ways, celebrating holidays as though he were still by their side and even marking his birthday each year with a cake in his memory. Though he is greatly missed, his influence endures through the values he embodied: to never give up, to love unconditionally, to treat others with kindness and respect, and to always strive to be the best person you can be. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. 

United States Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Kenneth Scott A. Finnell, Aviation Structural Mechanic, is survived by his loving wife, Angela; his daughters, Kayla and McKenzie; and his grandchildren, Genesis and Armani. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage on the Finnell family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.