John B. “Johnny” Kennedy passed away unexpectedly but peacefully early Sunday morning on May 24th, 2026, two days prior to his 42nd wedding anniversary. Born on June 21st, 1957 to James and Jacqueline (Benedict) Kennedy while his father was stationed in Anchorage, AK. They returned to Vermont, then moved to Connecticut five years later. Shortly after graduating from Hartford High School John joined the Navy in October 1975 becoming an AME-8351 working on A-4 jets and was honorably discharged in October 1979. He returned to Connecticut the following year where he worked as a printer for 35 years, then maintenance for various companies ending with MasoniCare in Rocky Hill. He was looking forward to retiring next year to enjoy his family and travel the US visiting extended family, National Parks and other sites. 

He leaves behind his mother, Jacqueline Buckley, his wife Cindy Lachmund Kennedy, three sons, Michael P. Kennedy and his girlfriend, Cassandra Jacobs, Keith J. Kennedy, Brian A. Kennedy and his intended Rebekah (Becky) Sanchez. He was pre-deceased by his father, James Kennedy, his brother Michael “Mouse” Kennedy, and stepfather Lawrence “Larry” “Dad” Buckley. Other siblings include Dawn Marie, Stephen Kennedy and wife Dari, Raymond P Buckley and wife Vicky, Raymond Kennedy and partner Holly Taylor, David Kennedy and wife Lauren, Maggie Tacopino and husband Daniel and Kathleen Buckley as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Over the years he achieved his deepest desire of having a family. He also enjoyed model railroading, coaching and umpiring Little League, grilling and hiking the local Rails to Trails paths with Cindy.

Calling Hours will be held at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT, on Friday May 29th, 2026, from 3:30pm till 4:30pm. A Funeral Home Service with Military Honors will take place between 4:30pm and 5pm. A Celebration of Life with refreshments will follow at his place of residence, Connect 55+, 20 North Road, East Windsor CT in their Community Room. In lieu of flowers donations to National Kidney Foundation, American Cancer Society or the MS Society would be appreciated. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com