John Brian Kennedy of Barnegat, New Jersey, passed away on the morning of December 30th. He showed resilience facing his medical issues, by always having a smile, cigar and a glass of port wine in hand.
As a young man, John, a native of Brooklyn, had an appreciation for the outdoors which led him to become a lifeguard at the Rockaway Beaches. He enjoyed camping, canoeing, hiking, fishing, hunting and boating with his family. He was an award-winning, competitive archer and an avid gun enthusiast. He was a member of a local gun club, where he enjoyed frequent outings with his family. Additionally, he devoted many Sundays to golfing with his sons. His love of photography resulted in volumes of memories which will be forever cherished by his family.
John was a Past Master and active member of IMA Lodge 917 in Manhattan. He was also an active member of The Order of Friendly Sons of the Shillelagh, Old Bridge Chapter since April 2001.
In addition to all of these activities, John found time to have a 38-year career with MaBSTOA, NYC Transit Authority, from which he retired in 2016.
John is survived by his beautiful and loving wife, Karen (née Jennings) of 41 years of marriage. He was the proud father of three wonderful sons: John, Thomas (Fiancée Samantha) and Daniel, who without his guidance would not be the men they are today. He is also survived by his sisters-and brothers-in-law, a nephew and several nieces.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at Layton's Home for Funerals in Lacey, NJ, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary's Parish in Barnegat, NJ at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider making a memorial donation to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or a charity of your own choosing.
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