John King Kennington

Como, NC – John King “Johnny” Kennington, 79, of 152 Spiers Road, died Thursday, November 12, 2026, in his home where he was cared for by his family.

Johnny was born in Portsmouth, VA on August 24, 1947, and was the son of the late Ralph Craven Kennington, Sr. and Dorothy King Parker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Craven K. Porter, and by his brother, R.C. Kennington.

A Navy veteran of the Vietnam War, Johnny enlisted at the age of 17 after graduating high school, and served 3 tours of duty in Vietnam.

Employed with International Paper, formerly Union Camp Corp., in Franklin, VA for 43 years, after retiring Johnny filled his time with yard work, watching sports on television, visiting his and Susan’s cabin in West Virginia, fishing, and fabricating machine parts in his shop for Harrellsville Metal Works.

Surviving is his wife of 56 years, Susan White Kennington; his sister, Margaret Ann Moser (Mike) of Lexington, NC; and nieces and nephews, Mark Pierce (Ann), Kim Pierce, Trey Kennington (Julie), Terri Harmon (Donnie), David Biltz (Susan), Shelia Biltz, Dawn Biltz, Kenny Biltz (Sandy), and Mark Moser (Ruth), and their families.

Through the years Johnny had three faithful canine companions who had passed away, Finally, Mandy, and Sadie. More recently his days were made brighter by the dog next door, Tippy, who came and went to and from Johnny and Sue’s home just like it was her own.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, November 15th, at 4:00 p.m. in Wright Funeral Home, 206 W 4th Avenue, Franklin, VA. Friends are invited to visit with the family in the funeral home immediately after the service. The burial will be private in the Town of Gatesville, NC Cemetery at a later time.

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to Brittany Rannings and other staff of Albemarle Home Care & Hospice, for the comfort and care given to Johnny during his period of declining health.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in his memory be made to PAWS of Hertford County, 231 Mt. Moriah Road, Winton, NC 27986.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org