John F. Jennings

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Jennings on March 14th, 2025, after a lengthy illness. Born during a snowstorm in Albany, NY, he was the son of the late Francis and Janet (Geddes) Jennings.

John joined the local carpenters union #117 in 1965, eventually starting his own construction company which he ran for 25 years. He bought a home on Great Island in Narragansett, RI, in 1993 and retired there in 1996. After renovating that house to his satisfaction, he was looking for something else to do. He joined and was very active in the men’s group at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church. He also became a member of the Narragansett Harbor Management Commission. He developed many lasting friendships from both.

Still looking for more to do, he decided to drive a school bus for the town, which he did for 11 years. There he met and maintained wonderful relationships with the parents, students, and co-workers.

Over the years he grew to love woodworking and created many birdhouses, tables and other items for friends, neighbors and children on his bus. He is survived by his best friend and love of his life Lorraine McTague Jennings, they were married for 58 years. He is also survived by two sons, Edward of Albany, NY, and John Jr. of Waverly, GA; two granddaughters, Kaitlin and Megan Jennings of Clifton Park, NY; sister-in-law Marleen McTague of Cohoes, NY; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Nancy Allanson and Patricia Benedict, and his brother-in-law, Thomas R. McTague.

The Family extends their gratitude to all the nurses at Hope Health Hospice and on the 3rd floor at South County Hospital for their exceptional care in his last weeks. He will be sorely missed.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, March 19th from 4-7pm in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, March 20th, at 10am in St. Mary Star of the Sea Church, 864 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, RI. Calling hours will also be held on Friday, March 21st in McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 N Allen St, Albany, NY, times to be announced. Burial will follow at St. Agnes Cemetery, 48 Cemetery Ave, Menands, NY.