John S. (Shack) Kenney DVM died on Saturday, August 27 with his family by his side. He was 79.

His lifelong love of horses led him to his distinguished career as an equine veterinarian. He was also one of the breeders of champion racehorse Albatross.

John played a wicked good game of racquetball and tennis. His unabashed Southern charm, good looks, and snarky humor endeared him to many. The consummate curmudgeon, he loved to rile and be riled by anybody up for the challenge and would kill to win a heated game of Scrabble; he was also a really sore loser.

He ventured into real estate and truly enjoyed being a docent at Polly Hill Arboretum along with his wife, Corinne, whom he adored.

He is survived by Corinne; his children Jonathan, Jennifer and Megan; his brother Charles; his sister Carolyn; his grandchildren Alex, Patrick and Lauren; his great-grandchild Sydney Rose; and faithful Cairn terrier, Pip. John will be sorely, sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations may be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (stjude.org) and/or The Polly Hill Arboretum (pollyhillarboretum.org).

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.