John Francis Hennessy II

Jack was born on April 2, 1947, the first surviving son of his parents John Hennessy and Mary Agatha Hennessy (now deceased). Although Jack was born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France (where his father had been stationed as a U.S. Army physician), he always called New Jersey his home. Jack spent his formative years in Ridgewood, New Jersey, graduating from Ridgewood High School in 1965.

After high school, Jack briefly attended college in Texas. But, as his father had done before him, Jack answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Army. Just before he shipped off, Jack met the love of his life, Sharyn Stanton, and the two were married on July 18, 1970; they stayed happily married for nearly 56 years. Jack served for three years in the Army, achieving the rank of Second Lieutenant. After his military service, Jack completed his undergraduate studies at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas. Never one to stop learning, Jack then earned his law degree from Vermont Law School in 1977 and later earned a master’s degree in finance from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

As a professional, Jack enjoyed a distinguished international business career that bridged his American and French roots, working for two prominent French companies, Total and Thales. His work reflected his intellectual curiosity, professionalism, and appreciation for both American and French cultures. Approximately 26 years ago, after living happily for nearly thirty years in Milford, Connecticut, Jack and Sharyn made their new home in Alexandria, Virginia, where they continued a wonderful life together surrounded by family and friends.

Above all, Jack was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharyn, his son, John Francis Hennessy III, and his wife, Denise, and their sons, Seamus and Tiernan; his daughter, Sarah, and her husband, Paul, and their children, Amelia and Owen; along with his siblings Cathy, Paul, Barbara, David, and Shawn. Family was the center of Jack’s life, and he took great pride and joy in each of their accomplishments and milestones.

Jack will be remembered for his intelligence, humor, good nature, dedication to service, love of learning, and deep devotion to his family. Although Alzheimer’s gradually took much from him, it never diminished the love and respect he inspired in those who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends and in the values of integrity, perseverance, and love that he leaves behind.