John W. Kennedy

John Kennedy, La lewa, of the Oneida Nation of the Thames, Turtle clan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

A skilled carpenter, John took great pride in working with his hands and could often be found in his shed tinkering new ideas. He enjoyed fishing, was passionate about golfing and educating and advocating for his Indigenous heritage. John collaborated with his community and local leaders to orchestrate and execute memorable events to honor the Indigenous peoples of the past, present, and future.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia D. (Eatwell) Kennedy, children; Cheryl (Scott) Gonion, John (Rebecca) Kennedy, Dawn (Tom) Potrykus, and Becky Kennedy, grandchildren: Sara, Chase, Michelle (Albert), Chasity (Dan), Chaize, Marissa (Mitch), and Nathan, Anastasia, Ayden, great grandchildren; Dominik, Madison, Layne, Eli, and Wade, siblings; Betty, Sharon, Dave and Jeff, sisters-in-law; Diane Caswell (Lee), Donna Wright, Wilma (Fred) Bellinato, along with many nieces and nephews and his extended AA family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Charles and Lenora (Hill) Kennedy, sisters Joan, Laura, and Baby, brothers; Ray, Wilbur, Mitch and Elliott, and brother-in-law, Fred Wright.

The memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 1:00pm until 5:00pm in the Jowett Funeral Home – 1634 Lapeer Ave., Port Huron.

Memorial contributions can be made to Blue Water Traditional Pow Wow – in care of the Port Huron Museum.

Jowett Funeral Home is privileged to serve the Kennedy Family.