Ambassador Crystal Nix-Hines

John Kennedy was a dignified and gracious man who was actively engaged in public life and committed himself to improving his community. I first met John and his sister Lena during the 2008 Barack Obama campaign. John and Lena were working 24/7 to raise much needed resources for the campaign as well as do outreach to build support for a then largely unknown candidate with an unusual name. Like anything John does, he threw himself into the formidable task with gusto, extending his own considerable network to Barack and Michelle Obama and doing everything he could to contribute to a successful outcome.

At subsequent celebratory White House gatherings, John was filled with the sense, as we all were, of how important that election and the one that followed were not only to us but to those in desperate need of fundamental changes in our society. Like the President we elected, John was a “Yes We Can” kind of guy.

After I returned from my appointment in Paris as U.S. Ambassador to UNESCO, and rejoined my law firm, John reached out with several potential clients as well as arranged a lunch with one of his colleagues who shares a mutual interest in the African continent. That was John - always looking for ways to foster relationships and help others connect and succeed.

It is hard to believe this wonderful life was taken from us so prematurely but I know God sees farther than we can and has higher purposes. I will always be thankful our paths crossed and find inspiration in his selfless service to others. We will miss you, John Kennedy. Rest In Peace.

Crystal

Ambassador Crystal Nix-Hines (Ret.)

Mentees

Corey Lee

John was a great mentor to me for the past four years. His passion for civic duty and the betterment of his community impacted my life tremendously. He urged me to seek the purpose God impressed upon my life and to go forward with conviction.

Today, I am pressing forward by attending law school at the University of Tennessee Knoxville with the purpose and motivation to serve my community in the same manner John had done so in Pasadena for so many years.

I am thankful to have spent quality time with him over the past four years. On the Sunday before his passing, I corresponded with him one last time by sending him the Bible verse 1 Samuel 15:34, “The Lord does not look at things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” John Kennedy was truly a man after God’s heart.

To his family and friends, my prayers go out to you all. May God bless you and keep you.

Justin Jones

My friend and mentor, the son of Pasadena was a father to many, not in the biological sense, but in an emotional and mental state. He was a pillar to the development of people and communities. John welcomed my family and me into his family without hesitation.

With the passing of John, I am reminded of one of our last conversations. He told me that I did not need his advice anymore. He had shared all he could with me. I recall asking, “What am I going to do without seeking your advice?” He paused. No baritone voice. No bigger than life personality. No jokes. Just a man, deep in his thoughts about the right words to say. “Think big and keep going.” John, had I known you were preparing me for your departure, and I would have said so much more to you… I now understand that soft voice and the seriousness of your contemplated response. My response to you, my friend: I heed your call, John. I will keep your work real to the people and decision-makers. I will continue to work and be of service.

The Bible says many are called but few are chosen. And I think we can all agree, John J. Kennedy was chosen.

I love you. Enjoy heaven!

Justin Jones, P.E. and lovely wife Natalya Jones Chair of Environmental Advisory Commission