Flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of former Mayor Kenoi

Gov. Josh Green has ordered that the United States flag and the Hawaii state flag be flown at half-staff at the state Capitol and at all state offices and agencies today to honor deceased former Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi.

Kenoi died Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021, at age 52 after a long battle with cancer. Kenoi’s family and friends will be celebrating his life from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium in Hilo.

“Billy Kenoi is the embodiment of persistence, dedication and aloha,” Green said Friday in a statement. “Through his health challenges, he remained committed to his wife Takako, daughter Mahina and his sons Justin and Liam, his responsibilities as mayor, and left a lasting legacy through his contributions to the state of Hawaii.

“I’m grateful for all the positive change and inspiration he has brought to our state, especially through his work with our youth. My thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time.”