Mattie McFadden-Lawson

Reflections on a Life Well-Lived

My name is Mattie McFadden-Lawson. I knew John for over 16 wonderful years. We met through his philanthropic, social justice, political, and community engagement work.

The universe is darker because his star is no longer shining. Although he is no longer with us, his spirit, love for life, and uplifting his fellow man will always remain with us. John meant so much to me because he was a “real” friend. He represented real leadership and integrity. He stood for all that is good in humanity and never complained.

Our community mourns this devastating loss. John was engaged in every aspect of his community, dedicating his life to service. He listened to his community and tried to address all of their concerns during his life of public service.

After I heard of his passing, I referred back to his text messages. I saw that for a period of time the messages became inspirational, rooted in scripture. The messages touched my life in such a special way. I touched his life because I was also there for him, and he knew it based on my support and appreciation of his impactful work. John was

We know that you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, and you have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7

Melrita Evans Fortson

John and I met almost thirty years ago when we both worked in corporate America. We became instant friends and supported each other’s endeavors.

Our career paths often intersected as we represented our companies to provide business opportunities for women, minorities, and service-connected disabled veterans. Additionally, we both responded to the California Public Utilties Commission and the California State Assembly, specifically, the late Honorable Gwen Moore. We also worked with political and community-based organizations that caused us to frequently interact and attend the same events.

John could have been classified as a feminist because he believed all genders should have the same equal rights and opportunities. He advocated for and supported women’s causes.

John’s contributions to women earned him a special recognition “Women in Action” award from the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute (LAAAWPPI). The other five co-founders and I sought individuals who contributed to the empowerment of women, specifically black women, through leadership in business, government and the community. John was one of LAAAWPI’s early award recipients.

As an alumnus of USC, John was ecstatic to learn LAAAWPPI was in partnership with USC and hosted its comprehensive educational programs at their campus.

Olimata Faal-Saho

When John decided to transition from corporate America to the political arena, I supported his decision. In my opinion, he was indeed the ideal candidate. John possessed great interpersonal skills, was even-tempered, could deal with criticism, enjoyed working with people, and loved working on policies and procedures that were to the benefit of his constituents.

John, I will miss you my dear friend! By the way, do save me a good spot. Luv ya!

John was a kind, gentle, humble, and ambitious human being. My husband and I met John about three years ago, and we felt connected with him. He was warm, welcoming, and supportive to us. He introduced us to quite a few people in response to projects we mentioned to him.

John was so down-to-earth. Whenever we would meet, we would chat for hours without realizing the time. He would talk to us about his personal and career goals. He cared a lot about human beings and was always finding ways to help – especially the underserved. He enjoyed connecting people and finding means to assist them in their endeavors.

John was so kind and thoughtful that he always sent me a message on Mother’s Day and my husband on Father’s Day. He was an incredible soul and may he Rest In Peace.

We have lost an amazing, kind, caring and humble human being. He will surely be missed.

The Campbell Family is deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend, neighbor, and brother Johnny who was like a member of our family. We grew up on Hammond Street in Pasadena and our mother still resides in our family home. John always stopped by to check on our mother whom he loved dearly. For her birthday in June 2022, he had a beautiful floral bouquet delivered that wished her much love and