Friendship Pasadena Church

(AKA

Friendship Baptist)

personal level with so many people that his influence will undoubtedly continue to be felt for years to come!

As a friend, John would constantly send me encouraging emails and unexpected text messages, as though we had been lifelong friends. He would always seek me out to participate in events around the city, including the unveiling of a portrait of Barack Obama, which now hangs in the Pasadena’s Central Library, and most recently, the unveiling and dedication of the historic monuments at 100 West Walnut Street. He actually changed the date of that unveiling because I had a previous engagement and he really wanted me to be the Master of Ceremonies. I remain humbled and honored by such a thoughtful gesture!

John was a shining example of strength and service, which should be followed by anyone seeking to step into his shoes. However, honestly, his shoes were too big to fill and we can only hope to stay true to the path that he has left for us to follow. Rest in Peace and Power my friend. You will be missed but never forgotten!

Pastor Lucious W. Smith

I met John Kennedy some 32 years ago when I became the pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church. While growing up, he attended worship with his father and was admired by young and old alike. The members introduced him to me as the youngest president of the Pasadena Chapter of the NAACP in its history. I noticed his love for and involvement in the community. We had a mutual respect for each even though he later told me that he didn’t think that I would be Metropolitan’s pastor for any length of time. I saw him move through the ranks of the political arena with great passion, wisdom, and finesse. I could always depend on John to stand for justice and equity in the community for all people. He articulated the mandate for people