Dr. Pamela Short Powell

a student in Pasadena schools, a church member, an advocate, a political activist and poli tician, and contributor to our community and as a colleague but most of all as a friend, a little brother, a spiritual giver, and a man of God.

John and I worked together for the LA Urban League. He helped them through a financial crisis overseeing the foundation, by raising money. Every day, he came to work prepared. Dressed in a stark white shirt, cufflinks, and a beautiful tie. I teased him about how good he looked, and those dimples and smile would light up the office. John

John Cushman

I am John Cushman, longtime Pasadena resident, lawyer, and member of Pasadena Rotary Club. When John J. Kennedy was very young, I recall an event that illustrates his potential as a leading citizen of Pasadena. One project at the Rotary is “career day” at the local high schools. I volunteered to be a part of that project at Blair High School. On the appointed day several Pasadena Rotarians showed up to tell students who had an interest and what it was like to be whatever the individual did for a living.

sent me text blessings throughout the years, photos of him while he traveled or with National political figures, including President Obama and every year he would remind me of his sister Lena’s birthday.

I am going to miss my friend, my little brother, trailblazer, wellwisher, supporter, and comrade.

“Friendship transcends death. Memories made will never be forgotten and created a lasting impression on those they left behind. Everyone became a better person for having such a wonderful friend.”

I had a good crowd of kids circled around me when I started my presentation. What it’s like to be a lawyer. Right away, I could see the boredom and disinterested body language of almost all present – except one, John J. Kennedy. He was very absorbed and asked intelligent questions - lots of them. One could tell he was a youngster with potential with a great future ahead of him in government or whatever calling he may choose. We became close friends over the years. John went on to have an outstanding career in both business and government. For the most part of our friendship I mentored him, in the last few years of his life he mentored me. I feel my life was made richer for it.