LTC (RET) John Durward Kennedy, Jr.

LTC (RET) John Durward Kennedy, Jr., 91, of Columbus, GA died Wednesday, May 10, 2023 at Columbus Hospice House.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, May 13, 2023 at Linwood Cemetery, with Reverend Ed Rollins officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the Chapel at Linwood Cemetery, according to McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31901.

John was born April 5, 1932 in Bainbridge, GA son of the late John Durward Kennedy, Sr. and Johnie Drake Kennedy. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army after 22 years of service. While enlisted, John served during the Korean War as well as two tours during Vietnam, once as an infantry battalion commander, and once as a helicopter pilot. He received the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit along with many other commendations. John was an originating member of the 121st Aviation Association. After retiring from the Army he went on to work with Civil Service. John was a loving husband and father who enjoyed working outside, tinkering in his tool shed, building furniture, or just walking in the woods. His many years in the service gave him countless stories that he loved to tell any chance he got.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Linda Jones Kennedy of Columbus, GA; son, John “Jay” Durward Kennedy, III of Columbus, GA; daughter, Lisa Bain Cheatham (Nathan) of Walling, TN; son, Jonathan Everett Bain (Carol) of Smiths Station, AL; grandchildren, Jessica Michelle Cheatham, Rachel Layne Cheatham, Eloisae Cheatham Patterson (Michael), Vivian Cheatham Hornsby (Clester); and four great grandchildren.

Flowers will be accepted, those so desiring may make contributions to The Historic Linwood Foundation Society

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