Kevin Patrick Birney
May 9, 1962 - March 2, 2026
Kevin Patrick Birney, age 63, of Magnolia, DE, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Born in New York, NY on May 9, 1962, he was a son of Mary (O’Gorman) Birney and the late Francis J. Birney. Kevin was a graduate of Holmdel High School with the class of 1980, where he enjoyed playing soccer and baseball. He then earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from St. Francis University in 1984, where he was a member of the Alpha Phi Delta fraternity. Kevin made his career in finance, working at Dover Elevator Company as a financial controller, Modern Controls as the CFO, and at Sullivan’s Landscaping and Maintenance as a financial controller until his retirement in 2026.
Kevin had a passion for sports and was a devoted New York Giants, Mets, and Rangers fan. He found great joy in golfing, but especially in playing hockey. Kevin also served as a referee for the USA Hockey Atlantic District. He loved traveling to Cabo and Ireland (“home”), where he loved listening to an Irish Seisiún. Kevin could always be found listening to Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty and other great Classic Rock. He enjoyed spending his summer days relaxing on the beach and indulging in a nap on the sand. Kevin also loved grabbing a bite and a beer at High Stakes Bar & Grill. During tax season, he spent countless hours assisting family and friends with their filing. He also enjoyed helping his community as the treasurer of Ahoy Condo Association and a board member of Point Landing HOA. A doting husband, Kevin was always sure to have Mary’s coffee ready in the morning, just how she liked it. He looked forward to having lunch with his son, Mike every week and discussing their favorite TV shows. Kevin was a family man who loved spending time with his grandchildren more than anything.
In addition to his father, Kevin was preceded in death by his sister, Eileen; and grandson, Orion. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Carter Birney; children, Patrick Birney (Megan), Ryan Birney (Renee), Caitlin Cagwin (Evan), Michael Birney, Brandy Smith, Ross Smith, and Jackson Smith; grandchildren, Lillian, Henry, Mila, Kellan, Jaylynn, and Oliviah; mother, Mary Birney; brother, Frank (Vivian); brother-in-law, Sean; and aunts, uncle, cousins, nieces, nephews, family and friends.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 pm until 7 pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 am on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at St. Joseph Parish, 319 East Main Street, Middletown, DE. Interment will follow in Old Drawyers Cemetery, 2839 DuPont Parkway, Middletown, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kevin’s memory to the American Cancer Society AstraZeneca Hope Lodge of Philadelphia, 110 West Laurel Avenue, Cheltenham, PA 19012 or online by clicking here; or to Nemours Children’s Health, Shands House, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 or online by clicking here.
Tammy Lima
Mary, sending love to you and all of Kevin’s family during this difficult time. I was so privileged to know Kevin and he will be forever missed. God bless you all. 🕊️
Dave Pearson
My wife Michelle and I met Kevin through our friend Mary. We quickly became friends and vacationed together. It’s very rare you meet such wonderful people and be fortunate enough to become part of each other’s lives. Our hearts break at the loss of Kevin and for Mary’s true love. He was such a good husband, father, man, and friend. We will miss him dearly.
With Deepest Condolences and Love,
Dave and Michelle Pearson
Sandra McGinnis
I am very sorry for your loss Mary and to the whole family. 🙏🙏
Brendan Lundy
Heaven is now the lucky one. Rest in peace brother !
Will tip a pint for you while in Dublin next week.
Tamara Lang
Dear Mary,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. During this difficult time, may you find comfort in the cherished memories that bring you joy and the peace that comes from the love you showed each other over the years.
Terri Lang
Dear Mary, and family. Prayers for all to sustain you through this difficult time.
O Gorman family
Sincere condolences to Kevin’s family and friends on the very sad loss.
May he rest in peace.
Michael, Jane, Noreen & Michael Daniel O’Gorman – Doonogan Mullagh
Frank Ryan
My condolences to Kevin’s family and friends.
Mike O'Gorman
Sending our prayers and love to Mary, her family and the Briney family. Kevin was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike O’Gorman
Sue Golab
Dan Dzurec
My deepest sympathies to Kevin’s family. I have great memories of Kevin from St. Francis, St Louis Hall and our fraternity!
I will keep Kevin and his family in my prayers.
Carol Johnson-Krumm
My heart goes out to you & the family. I will keep you in my prayers. I am always available to talk if you need.