John Contini

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of John V. Contini, Jr., who departed this life unexpectedly at his home on April 21, 2026. Born on January 6, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee, John was a beacon of love, leadership, and laughter whose impact will be felt for generations. John was preceded in death by his parents, John V. Contini and Evelyn Luther Contini, along with his brother, George Contini. A devoted family man, he is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Dorthy McLean Contini, whom he married on July 21, 1984. Together, they built a life rich in love and purpose, raising three children: Maria Contini, Clay (Andrea) Contini and Hannah Contini. John’s legacy continues through his treasured grandchildren, Amari Austin, Lennox Austin and Thomas Contini, who will forever carry their grandfather’s spirit in their hearts. John also leaves numerous extended family members. A man of many talents, John graduated from Messick High School in Memphis in 1967 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering in 1972 from the University of Tennessee. Throughout his career, John wore many hats, from an electrical engineer at companies like Florida Power & Light and Ozark Border Electric Cooperative, to owning his own power line construction business in Missouri. His electrical sales roles took him across Mississippi, Tennessee and Arkansas. His true calling emerged in his mid-40s when he furthered his education with a Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary and began serving as a bivocational minister. John’s ministry touched countless lives in rural Presbyterian churches across Mississippi and Kentucky, including Berea, Somerset, Lancaster and Harrodsburg. Planting and nurturing Highpoint Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Somerset was a deeply cherished accomplishment. His most recent ministry was at Bethel #1 Cumberland Presbyterian Church outside Harrodsburg. John also shared his wisdom as an educator with the Danville Independent and Jessamine County school system and at Bluegrass Community & Technical College. A man of varied interests, John was an active member of Ducks Unlimited, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, and a proud participant in the American Chesapeake Club, American Kennel Club (Breeder of Merit), and the Central Kentucky Hunting & Retriever Club. His passion for mentoring youth was evident through his involvement with the Garrard County 4H Shooting Sports, where he coached alongside his son, Clay. John also had a love for UT sports and had assisted with youth sports. John’s hobbies reflected his diverse talents and interests, from raising vegetables and livestock for farmers markets to crafting leatherwork and harnesses for draft horses. He was an avid gun collector and found joy in reloading. John loved the simple pleasures of fishing and duck hunting and his innovative spirit led him to build Sky Pond Chesapeakes, a kennel renowned for its exceptional Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. His dogs brought him immense joy and pride, with his puppies finding homes across the United States and abroad. Known for his quick wit and warm smile, John had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. His generosity extended beyond his immediate circle, impacting all who had the privilege of knowing him. In honoring John’s wishes, he will be laid to rest on the family farm, a place close to his heart. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Central Kentucky Hunting & Retriever Club scholarship fund or Ducks Unlimited, organizations close to John’s heart. As we say goodbye to a remarkable husband, father, grandfather, and friend, let us remember John V. Contini, Jr. for the mark he left on our lives. A legacy of love, laughter and unwavering faith, John’s spirit will guide us, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. A public visitation will be held from 11:00 until 2:00 PM Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Ramsey-Young Funeral Home with a graveside service at 2:30 PM at the Contini Family Cemetery, 4344 Poor Ridge Pike, Lancaster, Ky. 40444 by Rev. Mike Adams. Ramsey-Young Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

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