Wayne R. Keeney

My friend and Mentor died today:   "King Keeney," is what I called him. He was my mentor and my friend. He taught me everything I needed to know as a young lawyer in both state and federal criminal courts. I worked for him for several months, mostly handling his federal research and motions, but I also served as Second Chair in a criminal trial in Bridgeport, Part A. He also got me an opportunity to work with the great Frank Riccio, Sr., who ultimately, went above and beyond to help me too.   After leaving Frank Riccio's Office, Wayne gave me the encouragement and confidence I needed to open up my own law office. I rented an office from him for 17 years. He was always there for me. We even had matching business cards and letterhead too. HAHAHA   Wayne loved life; He loved his family, first becoming a NYC cop like his father, he was heavily involved in politics, he loved horseback riding, practicing law, being a prosecutor, defense lawyer, magistrate judge, and mentoring lawyers. And he really loved expensive things! Lol   After his father retired, he would often pop up to watch Wayne in action on trial. His dad was so proud of him.   He started in law enforcement, just like his father, then he moved to California and became a prosecutor. And then he moved again to become a criminal defense lawyer in Florida. His last stop was CT, and so many of us were lucky to have known him.   He did not like being interrupted! He liked to get to the point and not be questioned. But if you could just listen, the wisdom would pour out. At times, he would seem harsh, short it impatient, not just with me, but clients too. I remember taking to a client after he left, and The client said that "although Mr Keeney was harsh, it was because he cared. Like a father."   There was a large conference room above my office. On the third floor. At one point I was on the board of directors for the NAACP. Wayne was always generous, allowing us, 27 members of the NAACP Board of Directors, to use that room once a month. And the first time we did, I believe it was right around St Patty's Day. Wayne decided to take my husband, well drag my husband, to the local bar and buy him drinks. When he came back, I'll say that was the first, and last time I ever saw my husband in that state. Lol.  No one could ever say no to Wayne!   I loved him, almost like a father.   We moved away 4 years ago and sadly; I had very little contact with him. I saw the post today about him being in ICU and planned on going after work. And then I read the next couple comments and realize that he had passed already. I feel so sad I didn't get to give him one last hug and kiss on the cheek, but I know he wouldn't want me to regret anything, he only wanted the best for me. He only wanted the best for everyone! He always said, there's always enough money to go around! With all the people helped, a little piece of his spirit is inside all of us and his soul still lives on within us.