Dr. Jacquelyn Dupont-Walker

President, WEDC – Ward Economic Development Corp

First Vice Chair, LA Metro Board of Directors

We know some people for decades and know very little, if anything about them, their family, profession, or dreams. It happens because the entry into each other’s lives is for a specific task, purpose or initiative and later encounters center around those themes. John could make things happen, it was said. However, I met John J. Kennedy because his big sister Lena “sang his praises”: at every opportunity. Her pride in his core values, his life’s walk and work, and his vision for a better life for all people, led me to find out if her seemingly glowingly subjective orations about John J. Kennedy were true. If they were, he was a keeper.

John and I bonded around people-power and getting folk involved in reaching their destiny. John Kennedy inspired me As he ...

offered himself for public service, hence I supported him. made decisions in governance, that led me to embrace his initiatives.

engaged with the people whose voices had been muted, so consequently I raised the megaphone on my end.

paused for God’s direction and sent scriptures for me to read (last sent I Corinthians 13), and as a result I prayed for his strength.

took action, even standing alone, with no other title than fellow human being, so subsequently I joined and supported. used his influence to create access for others, so I collaborated.

sent “thank you” text or note, and accordingly I learned not to underestimate the power of “thank you”:

It has been the blessing of a lifetime to see the glory of God manifested in a man who put God’s mission for his life first, who saw only possibilities, and whose accomplishments manifested love for all humankind.

John J. Kennedy was at once my little brother and my mentor about a how to “drop the mic” calmly while never relenting from doing what is right. I thank God that our paths crossed. Lena – its legacy time!!

William Larry Edson

It was unexpected and devastating news to learn of your brother, Councilmember John J. Kennedy’s, passing. Our condolences go out to you and your family.

My relationship with John goes back more than 10 years. As a constituent, Councilmember John J. Kennedy was very responsive to any requests we made in the operation of our rental properties in Northwest Pasadena. Our discussions were often centered on improving the community.

An important aspect of our friendship was our spiritual bond. We often shared scriptures that enhanced our daily walk with our Savior, Jesus Christ.

He was responsive to the entire community. On one occasion my wife, Gerri, sand I were having breakfast with him at a local restaurant. The owner of the restaurant spoke to John about an issue they were having with an outdoor restriction. The next week the matter was resolved. The restaurant could better serve their clientele. That was the kind of guy he was.

One of our favorite programs was Councilmember Kennedy’s Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway. It set the tone for the holiday season over the years. The impact it had on those less fortunate was heartwarming. His advocacy for affordable housing was noteworthy.

We always supported John in his re-election campaigns. It was a no-brainer. He was the best man for the job. He cared about every facet of the community. His commitment and hard work made a difference. Because of him we live in a better place.

We will miss our dear friend, John, but he will not be forgotten.

LOVELY EMAIL MESSAGES RECEIVED:

All of us at PACTL are still in shock! We were so happy that he won and were making plans to have him visit us. I cannot imagine the pain that you all might be experiencing. As an indigenous person (Maya) we believe that our soul merges with the cosmos and all creation. We believe that when good caring people leave this plane of consciousness they become angels to help us and guide us from another dimension. We do not believe in death the way that Western culture believes. We believe we continue to bless our loved ones and continue to do the work that is difficult to do when we are in the physical plane. I do believe that his soul is eternal and will continue to guide our inner wisdom and he will continue to care for all of us when he can. Yes, your heart will heal as he lives in it. Remember that he had precious time when he was here and he used it well to make a difference. He lives in many of our hearts. In peace and acceptance of the Divine Plan. – Yolanda

Trevino

Pasadena Media (Pasadena Community Access Corp.)

Dear Kennedy Family,

All of us at Pasadena Media wish to extend our deepest condolences for the loss of the Honorable Councilmember John J. Kennedy. John’s passing has left a large vacuum in the City and Pasadena Media deeply feels this loss. Last year, John wrote to me to encourage me to work to increase salaries for our staff. We were able to provide raises to the staff through realignment of job functions. He was an advocate for our employees. In April of last year, John stated, “your employees do an exceptional job at telling thousands of stories from Pasadena Media”.

Like the rest of the City, we will miss his passion and his bigger-than-life personality. His support for public safety, progressive social justice, affordable housing, local hiring, and police oversight to name a few of his major initiatives. Moreover, who can forget his annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway.

Goodbye, my friend and colleague, we pledge to continue to support your mission. We will always hear your deep resounding voice in the corridors of City Hall.

With My Deepest Sympathy

George E. Falardeau Executive Director CEO, Pasadena Media (Pasadena Community Access Corp.)