John Burt Scott

John B. Scott, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected business leader, passed away on November 13th surrounded by family. He was born on July 25, 1944, in St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in St. Clair, Michigan.

John attended the University of the South (Sewanee), where he majored in English and distinguished himself across academics, athletics, leadership, and campus life. He was a Kemper Scholar and an active member of the Order of Gownsmen, S’ Club, Silver Spoon, Pan-Hellenic Council, Glee Club, and Choir. He served as president of ATO, secretary of Blue Key, and vice president of the Red Ribbon Society. He graduated in 1966 with a degree in English literature.

John was an exceptional athlete throughout his youth, earning ten letters across four sports in high school and serving as captain of the Sewanee track team, where he earned four collegiate letters in track and competed in intramural all-star football.

John began his career in 1967 as a financial analyst with Kemper Insurance Companies in Long Grove, Illinois. He earned an MBA in finance from Loyola University Chicago in 1970. From 1973 to 1977, he served as finance officer at Kemper, later taking on responsibility for new business activities. He rose steadily through the organization and was elected vice president and chief executive officer in 1988. Following the acquisition of Kemper Life Insurance Companies by Zurich Insurance Group in 1996, he became president and CEO of Zurich Kemper Life and, in 1999, chairman of the board. He was also active in his industry and community, serving on numerous corporate boards and contributing for many years to the United Way of Lake County, Illinois, and Omni Youth Services. He was listed in Who’s Who in Finance Industry in 2001.

John and his wife, Darlene, built a wonderful life together in Arlington Heights, Illinois, and John’s Island in Vero Beach, Florida, before settling in Alexandria, Virginia. He cherished time with his two daughters, Kristen Scott and Katie Scott-Medema, and delighted in being “Poppy” to four grandchildren: Piper, Scott, Madeline, and Lauren. He is also survived by his beloved brother, Conley J. Scott of Palm Springs, California; his son-in-law, Mark Medema; and his brother- and sister-in-law, Karl and Lynn Lady of Alexandria, Virginia, along with many nieces and nephews who brought so much joy to his life.

Above all, John will be remembered as a generous, loyal, and loving man—a terrific husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We were blessed to have him in our lives.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of John B. Scott to the Parkinson’s Foundation. www.parkinson.org or a charity of your choice.