Remembering Michael “Kevin” Malone

Michael “Kevin” Malone, affectionately known as “Kevin” to family, many friends and beloved colleagues, owner of the renowned Tuskie’s Restaurant Group, passed away Saturday, July 1, at 10:53 p.m. at the age of 69, in Leesburg. 

Kevin was the beloved and generous owner/co-owner of six award-winning restaurants: Tuscarora Mill Restaurant in Leesburg, Magnolias at the Mill in Purcellville, South Street Under in Leesburg, and three Fire Works in Leesburg, Arlington, and Sterling, as well as Leesburg’s event venue, Birkby House.

He was a local legend, renowned for his entrepreneurship, hospitality, sharp wit, and keen sense of humor. Kevin was born Oct. 23, 1953, in Washington DC and grew up in Annandale, VA. 

He began his career in the hospitality industry bartending at his parents’ house parties. His mother sent him to bartending school in Alexandria to hone his craft and she remarks frequently it was her best investment ever. Kevin eventually came to work at JR’s Stockyards Inn where he met his friend and mentor Jim Wordsworth. Jim eventually encouraged him to open his own restaurant. In 1985, Kevin opened Tuscarora Mill in Leesburg VA and it has been a cornerstone of the community ever since.

Kevin was committed to the local community and his employees and believed in excellent food served with outstanding service. He also enjoyed sharing his love of fine wines and Guinness.

His sense of humor was unparalleled, and he could never resist a quick-witted joke or pun to regulars of his restaurants or new guests alike. He made all feel welcome, comfortable, and loved whenever he met family, friends, and associates, a tradition of his since early childhood. 

He is survived by his beloved wife Kathleen of 42 years, five children: Aemon, Colin, Evan, Regan, D’Laney, and seven grandchildren.

His funeral mass will be held at St Francis De Sales Catholic Church in Purcellville at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 13, followed by a celebration of his life and legacy at Birkby House starting at 2:30 p.m. 

Donations to honor Kevin may be made to St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church, 37730 St. Francis Ct., Purcellville, VA. 20132.

Kevin was fondly remembered by his cousin Patrick Malone who wrote the following on July 7:

When I was five, my mother died, and Kevin very much became like a big brother to me in Annandale.

I, us, we, the Malone family, Kevin’s loving friends, and his many associates, our collective heart deeply aches in sadness and grief of his passing as we will all miss him very dearly.

We will fondly remember Kevin’s smile, his brilliant quick wit, his laughter, his charm, as well as his unmatched love and compassion for his family and friends.

I toast to Kevin, right hand over my heart, holding a glass of an Irish beverage on high with my left hand, while I recite the following poem of mourning from the Emerald Isle in his honor:

Kevin, may the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sunshine warm upon your face.
May the rains fall upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.