John Talbot Jennings of Hampton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 17, 2022. His passing on Resurrection Sunday was a testament to his victory over death. John was a devoted Christian who no doubt danced through the gates of Heaven to meet his Savior.

John was born in Petersburg, Virginia on December 17, 1943, to Vernon Franklin Jennings and Olive Willie West Jennings. He was a native of Waverly, Virginia where he spent his childhood and his young adult life. He graduated from Waverly High School, tried his hand at college for one semester at Richard Bland College, and ultimately decided college was not for him. He joined the United States Navy in 1964 and completed four years of active duty where he was stationed primarily in Washington, D.C. in the Naval Investigative Service. He transferred to the Naval Reserves in 1968 where he served until his retirement in 1995.

In civilian life, John found employment in the Materials Department at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company. He retired in 2008, after 35 years of dedication to his work. He was also employed part-time as a security guard at Bethel Church and was a devoted member there for many years. John spent part of his adult life in Surry County, but the majority was spent as a resident of Newport News and Hampton.

John was a fierce protector of his family and a counselor and friend to everyone he met. He was the family weatherman, the voice of reason, a spiritual guide, a biblical scholar, and a fervent prayer warrior. He covered his family and friends in prayer every day and offered his guidance and wisdom to anyone who was in need. He was a dedicated Navy man, who took pride in his service to God and his country.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Olive; and his siblings Vernon Ashby Jennings (Sonny), Lewis Franklin Jennings, and Gwendolyn Jennings Cox.

John is survived by his daughters, Emily Jennings Pittman (Steven) of Elberon, Sarah Elizabeth Jennings (Jason Beckner) of Hayes, Clara Grace Walker (CJ) of Newport News; and his son Steven James Jennings of Hampton. He is also survived by grandchildren, Elizabeth and Samuel Pittman, Tyler Jennings, John and Penelope Beckner, and Chloe Walker. His legacy will also live on through the lives of his many cherished nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 21, 2022, from 6 to 7 PM at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Newport News. A graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, April 28, 2022, at 12 PM at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk.