Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,Inc. – Pasadena/ Altadena Chapter

John supported us and our projects in the community – Health Summit/ Career STEAMposium/ COVID Vaccines, etc. We had a shared goal of improving the lives of residents in Pasadena, especially those that looked like us. He believed in our programs and made sure he helped kick them off to set the stage for the attendees.

in housing opportunities to make sure low-income residents had opportunities to purchase homes in new developments.

John was our friend, and he viewed our organization as a value-add because our programs positively influenced and improved the lives of his constituents and the community. Knowing he had partner organizations like ours helped John to be a better and stronger representative of his community. He was in touch, he was knowledgeable and he knew he had community support. He leveraged this knowledge to push issues and help Pasadena be better.

John was thoughtful and considerate as he offered ideas to help us improve and have a greater impact. When we embarked on projects where he or we saw a greater need, he was open to meeting so we could express our needs or learn his view. We were then able to incorporate feedback into our plans. John liked the State of Black Pasadena and felt the information imparted was crucial. He also appreciated our teaming with the Pasadena NAACP office to deliver financial literacy workshops that helped Pasadena residents get ready to be ready to participate

As I look back now, John and I shared some good fun time together, whether it be in person, or simply talking over the phone. John was an avid writer in college. I recently shared with him some of the letters he would write to me. John would always open up with scripture; he wanted me to stay bonded to Our Savior.

There is so much more I can say about my best friend, my brother John J. Kennedy. John worked hard to enrich the lives of so many, and those he touched will sorely miss him … I love you John J. Kennedy.

Elise Mallory

LOVELY EMAIL MESSAGES RECEIVED:

Lena, my heart goes out to you upon hearing of the loss of your brother. John had a smile that I will always remember and a heart of gold that is hard to forget. Please know we are praying for you all and that God is close to the brokenhearted. (Ps 34:18). – Vallitta Sharpe