With an emotional message posted on Instagram on May 18th, the world was struck by the news of the passing of Kenny Jary, an 84-year-old influencer known as "Patriotic Kenny." His friend shared the devastating news, stating, "The tears may never stop flowing. It is with the most indescribable sadness we share that Patriotic Kenny has passed. He experienced the most profound love and was Earth's bright light. He passed surrounded by love and in peace."
Jary, a Navy veteran, had amassed a combined following of over 4 million across Instagram and TikTok. Known for his positive messages and iconic electric scooter, he touched the lives of countless individuals. In March, he shared that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.
Amanda, a close friend who helped establish the Patriotic Kenny Foundation, shared a message on Jary's Instagram Stories on May 18th, expressing her deep sorrow and the weight of her friends' grief. "I know your heart is breaking over the news of Kenny's passing," she wrote. "I carry the weight of your grief on top of my own. I am so sorry for your loss. Kenny's videos comforted so many of you in truly dark times of your lives. You've been vulnerable and have opened up to us about those moments."
Amanda encouraged Jary's followers to watch his older videos, assuring them that they "will never be taken down." She also urged them to donate to his foundation in his honor.
Jary's followers had previously rallied together to raise funds for a new mobility scooter after his previous one broke a few years ago. Using the extra funds, he launched the Patriotic Kenny Foundation, a nonprofit that provides mobility scooters to veterans in need. Jary served as the foundation's president.
After his diagnosis, a GoFundMe campaign to support his medical costs raised over $300,000. In an emotional video in March, Jary expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support. "I don't know what to say," he said. "That is just unbelievable, and I mean it. You know, if I can make some more kids and people happy and veterans—you know, mainly veterans—I'd be so much happier. I could go down and do everything. Thank you."
The memory of Patriotic Kenny will live on through his inspiring videos and the impact he made on the lives of others.
