John Bryant Kennedy

John Bryant Kennedy 03/27/1948 – 11/20/2025

Born in 1948, Bryant began his life on Kennedy Road in Oconee County—a place that remained his true home throughout the years. Though his work and travels took him to many temporary residences across the country, he always returned to Kennedy Road, where he lived until his passing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, following a fierce and unrelenting battle with pancreatic cancer.

Bryant retired as a superintendent from Hanging H Pipeline, a job that wasn’t just a career, it was his passion. The pipeline took him across 48 states, each one adding a new chapter to his well-worn storybook of life. His time on the road made for a colorful ride, and if you ever had the pleasure of meeting him, chances are you walked away with one of his unforgettable, and often unfiltered, stories.

He is lovingly survived by his son John Kennedy and wife Mary Jo, and his daughter Natalie James. Bryant was a proud grandfather to Blake (Sam) and Zach (Michael) Kennedy, and to Frankie, Wilson, and Caroline James, each of whom brought him immense joy. His devoted sisters, Beth (Danny) Manus and Nancy (John) Fuller, cared for him with unwavering love and tenderness until the very end. He also leaves behind his cherished niece, Elizabeth Fuller (Jason) and great nephews Gus and Ezra Gonzalez. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his dear friend Pat Paul, for her unwavering support and compassionate care over the past few months.

Bryant was preceded in death by his parents Eunice Bryant and John Aubryne Kennedy, beloved grandson Jordan Kennedy, the mother of his children, Carol Brewer Kennedy, and his wife, June Annette Kennedy.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 4PM at Temple United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2PM until 4PM at the church prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Temple United Methodist Church or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com