Michele Beal Bagneris

Pasadena City Attorney

Here’s my tribute to John Jackson Kennedy, even his name rings of the distinction befitting of how he lived royally, with his larger than life style, Having met through my role as City Attorney and his as activist more than 20 years ago, it developed into a friendship with familial ties – connections made around the world, all the while.

My husband, children and brother who lives in Africa became part of John’s broader family, bringing them in as only he could, with frequent texts, conversa tions, even a speaking engagement planned in Senegal for this Fall, I could count on his support and actions for me personally and professionally, with faith, prayers and inspirational words that worked through it all.

A fighter for the community, I appreciate how he would prepare in advance to make sure things are done properly and in order, because that’s how he would roll, The first letters of his name reflect how he was often the first to step up, speak out, go all-in, a man of many words with spirit and soul.

Jovial reflects the oh-so hearty laugh he shared, his warm nature came through, with a deep and heartfelt presence that none could stop,

Oratorical skills were his signature, from unparalleled introductions of others, making them feel oh so special, to delivering speeches that were meaningful and worthy of the mountaintop.

Helpful to those in need – literally around the world, fulfilling his Christian mission from the least of these to heads of state and beyond, with his early morning inspiration and religious texts, all so encouraging,

Networking was John’s mantra, a boundless ability to connect and help people globally, making a difference; a network that connected family, friends, community and his One Pasadena, that will forever loudly ring!

Julieta Aragon Pasadena City Commissioner

Dear Lena,

It has been almost a month since the passing of your brother Mr. Kennedy (as I would always call him). It’s incredible how it still feels so unreal. Yesterday I was driving on Los Robles to Woodbury and as I passed in front of his home, I saw the yard was impeccable as always. But what truly struck me was to see his pickup truck parked in the driveway, which strongly said, “Kennedy is Home.” It made me very sad to accept that he was not.

I am a John Muir alumna, and I have been a Pasadena resident for 42 years. Since very young, I always worked long hours that left no time to get informed about the politics of our city or to be involved with the community. When Victor Gordo ran for City Council the last time, I tried to vote locally for the first time, but I found out that I did not live in his district. I soon found out that I was in John Kennedy’s district, and I introduced myself to him. I was a board member of POP and worked at the Pasadena Job Center, which is part of NDLON (National Day Laborer Organizing Network), and that led to having more interactions with him. I started to know the human behind the title.

I have never forgotten a couple of times that I made a public comment in front of the City Council. After I finished the first time, he spoke on the microphone and mentioned that I was one of his constituents. That small gesture made me like a million dollars! On another occasion after my public comment, he again said that I was his constituent. A couple of councilmen

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replied in a joking tone, “Yes, Councilman we remember.”

He supported the minimum wage campaign. Later, the City gave the contract to NDLON, and I was appointed to do this job. He supported the parents of the four schools that PUSD (Pasadena Unified School District) decided to close. He supported other important things that we took to City Council.

In 2021, I received a call from his liaison Susana to tell me that “the Boss,” as I referred to him when speaking with her, wanted me to be part of the Northwest Commission. My answer was no. I didn’t feel I was a fit for a board of that magnitude. She called me again and said my boss is not accepting a no. She went on to say, “He feels you have to sit in this board because there are no Hispanics, and who better that you to bring the Hispanic voice to the table. He understands you might feel uncomfortable, but he knows you will learn.” That’s what got me to accept. He was totally right. After I accepted, he invited me to tea, and we had a long conversation about the duty we as people of color have for our community.

Ms. Kennedy, I sent a sympathy card to the P.O. Box, I wrote a small paragraph for the POP newsletter, and I closed this month’s Northwest Commission meeting by remembering Councilmember Kennedy. I have tried to do as much as possible to honor his memory.

Dear Lena, My heart is so saddened tonight to hear the news of John’s shocking passing. With you, I stand in the faithfulness and comfort of our Resurrected Lord and believe that John is in our Lord’s embrace. May you personally experience that hope as well. We at Fuller are only grateful for John as our representative, and as a collaborator, advisor, and friend. We are really grieved at his sudden passing and can share in your grief. With gratitude for John and for you, Mark.

I grew up as an extremely quiet, shy girl who lived a life in which I always felt invisible. It’s so hard to believe what I’ve become. Your brother had that special touch of making everyone feel seen and heard. I was part of that group of people to whom he always sent a text to ask how I was doing or to send a scripture from the Bible.

The last time I saw him was at the groundbreaking for the Robinson Park Pool. I felt concerned. I sent him a text to ask him to rest well, since there was still a lot ahead to do. His response was to thank me for my work that I did in the community and to send a blessing.

When my father passed in 2021, it made me think about how people would remember me when I passed and what legacy would I leave behind. I find myself asking those same questions with the passing of your brother. I feel the responsibility of paying more attention to the words I say and my actions. Even after his passing, he still leaves me a lesson to be learned.

You are very blessed to have had him as your Brother and you must feel very proud. That feeling will help you with the healing of your soul.

Public Works Department, City of Pasadena

On behalf of the Public Works Department, I want to express our sadness in hearing of the sudden passing of Councilmember Kennedy and offer our deepest condolences to the entire Kennedy family.

John had a connection to the Public Works Department that included working for the department early in his career and helping to establish the City’s first franchise trash hauler system. John’s late brother (Michael) also worked for Public Works and his nephew (Julian) currently works for the department. Many in our department closely relate to the Kennedy family and specifically looked up to John for his personal and career success and not forgetting where he came from. The Kennedy legacy in Public Works lives on.

The one main word Public Works employees used to describe John is CARING. John cared deeply about giving opportunities to those looking to get ahead and was extremely supportive of the MASH program that provides workers with jobs at City departments that could lead to permanent positions. He also took it upon himself to become a mentor to several individuals, including some current City employees.

Another description for John is that he had a big heart for the community. This was reflected in the projects he championed, which had to include significant community benefit and wellness as part of the project. A recent example is the Robinson Pool remodel project that John was instrumental in helping come to fruition. He carefully listened to the community and made sure that the final design concepts lined up with the vision that he felt would benefit the community the most, and he was instrumental in securing the funding.

John will be missed by all of us. We find comfort in knowing that he’s in a better place and we know that his legacy will continue to live on in perpetuity in the City that he loved most. Rest in peace Mr. Kennedy.

Sincerely, Tony Olmos, Director of Public Works

LOVELY EMAIL MESSAGES RECEIVED: Lena, I cannot tell you how shocked I was to see the news yesterday. I’ve got tears in my eyes writing to you. I know how close your family is, and how gut-wrenching this is. All my love to you and your family. I feel so privileged to have known John and to have worked on one of his passion projects. I wish I could hug you from here. Take care Lena. Love, Jen

Horace Wormely Pasadena Senior Commission

I first met John when he was at Blair High School. He was quite active and outgoing; not only was he active with school politics, but also, he demonstrated a desire to be an active community member.

After John completed his college studies, returned to Pasadena, and became President of the local NAACP, I worked closely with John in identifying and addressing issues in the Greater Pasadena area that involved people of color.

I’ve known the Kennedy family since the 1970s and have enjoyed celebrating special occasions with them, such as weddings, outings, etc. I trained John’s nephew Jonathan in basketball and wrote him a letter of recommendation for a police officer position with the City of Seattle Police Department where he is currently employed. Lena and I attend the First AME Church in Pasadena, where we are both active.

I was shocked and saddened to learn about the death of John. I imagine the Kennedy family grief must be overwhelming. Please know that I am here for you.

John was thoughtful and generous and his devotion to family, community and the City of Pasadena was beyond admirable. Whenever I needed help with an event, I knew I could always count on John. I have also witnessed John’s best qualities when he interacts with people, and I saw him go out of his way to help and support others.

I remember when I retired from my position with the City of Pasadena in 2018, and the administrative staff coordinated a retirement celebration. Although John arrived after I had acknowledged dignitaries, nevertheless because of my respect for John, I made sure I acknowledged him. In John’s typical style, he joked and laughed it off. However, at the next City Council meeting, he graciously took the time to acknowledge me and present me with a certificate. That act of kindness and thoughtful consideration will forever resonate with me.

When I hear John’s name, and like countless times in the past, what comes to my mind is John’s large, bright, beaming smile from ear to ear. I will cherish the memories of John forever. With blessings and prayers, Horace Wormley

Mattie Betts

Pasadena Senior Commission

John was like a brother to me, someone who looked out, and showed concern for my daily well-being, mental and physical health through acts of kindness and service.

I watched John grow up during his childhood years on Hammond Street. It was such a joy to witness John and his siblings’ development and experiences. John’s impact on the community was great. Every resident not only in his district could count on him for support, resources, and assistance. John approached each person as if he personally knew them. He impacted my life through his daily walk and service in the community.

John inspired and motivated me to become more involved within my community, and accepting a position as his appointee on the Pasadena Senior Commission representing District 3. John’s services were not completed for recognition. So many acts of kindness and blessings to individuals and families were completed by John behind the scenes. He was about the service, not the prestige or acknowledgment. I will miss John’s friendship, consistent motivation, love, and support. He was truly one of Pasadena’s favorite sons. Rest easy my dear friend.

Renee Morgan-Hampton Commissioner

John meant the world to me as a dear friend and councilmember. He had that gift of gab along with that infectious smile and laugh.

John had the charisma and energy when he entered a room. As a councilmember, he was strategic, focused, driven, proven and stayed the course. I know John from grade school. His impact on our City and community was tremendous and will never be forgotten.

John was a real estate developer,

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contractor and loved historic homes. John always checked in with me via text to say something of interest or a quote. He would call me to make sure our neighborhood was safe if a crime had been committed. During the last two years, John stopped by my parents’ house. We would talk about Pasadena growing up and our upbringing during those times.

When I lost my dog in May 2021 to the negligent and careless hands of a local veterinarian, John was upset and introduced me to the right pet experts for advice and guidance. In April 2022, he called and/or texted about the status of the litigation. John would always stay in touch via call or a text.

Lastly, I will miss John’s guidance and leadership in the City of Pasadena. John will be missed. There will never be another John J. Kennedy.

Dear Lena, My most deep and sincere condolences to you and all your family. John worked fearlessly, intelligently, and tirelessly for those things in which he deeply believed. It was always clear that he was a person who believed that good intentions were never enough. In addition to the above, I will miss his smile, his facility in using words of elegance, and his ability to energize a room. I’m thankful to have known John and to have seen his good works. Best, Roberta Martinez