LaDoris McClaney

Ours was a friendship, indeed, a kinship built and designed by Christ. We were kindred spirits as we both led our lives and ran our respective careers with integrity and compassion. That was, in fact, the greatest compliment that he paid to me; a real estate mogul who leads with love. John was dear to me for many reasons, but most significantly, John ensured that weekly, he sent a scripture that spoke to God’s greatness and undying love

Lauri Lynn Mitchell Brannon

In our childhood days, we called my neighborhood friend Johnny. I met John as a child; his family lived behind our family who lived on Claremont Street. As children, we would walk around the neighborhood and play with whoever was outside. The Kennedys were a larger family, so you knew someone would be outside to play. As children, we would talk between the backyard fences. I always enjoyed John’s company even though he was younger than me. John was a very bright and funny person as a child.

Over the years and after we grew up, we didn’t see much of each other, but believe me, when we saw each other, it was like old times. His smile was always so heartfelt, and his words were always kind.

I could talk to him about my likes and dislikes concerning the community, and he would always listen even though he wasn’t my councilman. John would always make sure we got our holiday baskets every year by bringing them right to our door. John was just that kind of a person who made sure the community was well. John would stop by just to see how my husband Joe and I were doing. We would talk for a while, and he would update us on the community affairs.

for me. I treasured reading those messages because they were always right on time! My dear friend had a generous heart that extended beyond inspirational messages. He was a community leader, an advocate for those less fortunate, and a friend to many. His life and legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who loved him most and my prayers is that he rests now in the arms of our beloved Savior.

My husband Joe met John over 30 years ago, and they became good friends as well. Prior to his passing and out of the blue, John told my husband he was a miracle, which caught my husband off guard.

What inspired me about John is that nothing would stop him from doing what was right.

Gone too soon, never forgotten. We were waiting to see his next move.

Your Backyard Neighbors, Joe and Lauri Lynn Mitchell Brannon

I am devastated and broken hearted for you and your family, and the thousands who knew and loved him and benefited from his leadership and public service. I feel so lucky that I met you and John in Washington, D.C. at one of the early Obama National Finance Committee meetings in 2007 or 2008 when many doubted Obama could win.

You are a very special family and John was a remarkable, accomplished person. From a young age, he was devoted to justice, equality, and fairness as well as interested in the world. Also, talking to him was always so interesting. I loved and respected him as well. I often called him for his opinion on political developments and his read. I saw him last in person, I think it was spring 2016, when he came to New York. We met on that Saturday, had dinner, and went to the movies nearby in Lincoln Center. On Sunday we met for brunch; I think