07/29/15 – Funeral Services Set for Longtime Staffer John M. Ginn

July 29, 2015 2015-2016 News Releases

Funeral services have been set for long-time Physical Plant Director John Ginn who passed away on July 28. Johnny started working for the KHSAA on July 24, 1984, and at the time of his death, was the KHSAA’s longest tenured employee, starting three days prior to current Commissioner Julian Tackett. Every person who has ever served on the staff or Board of Control of the Association, along with the many workers, volunteers and constituents who came into contact with him on a daily basis, was forever positively changed by his attitude and infectious smile. The entire KHSAA family extends its deepest sympathy to his daughter Diane (J. Michael Griffitt), son John Allan, grandson Joseph and granddaughter Jessica, and the entire extended family. 

He was 82, having celebrated his birthday in May and was the widower of Billie Carol Ginn. Born May 1, 1933 in Bourbon County, KY, he was the son of the late John B. and Odella Carr Ginn. Mr. Ginn was a U.S. Army veteran during the Korean War. He retired as a Captain from the Lexington Fire Department after 29 years of service. He then worked for KHSAA where he had been for 31 years. He loved sports and he loved people. He was an avid fisherman, horse racing enthusiast, UK Basketball and Cincinnati Reds fan and had been an exceptional athlete himself. Mr. Ginn was a member and an Elder Emeritus at Arlington Christian Church, as well as a Mason. Survivors include his son, John Allan Ginn, Lexington; daughter, Diane Ginn (Joseph M.) Griffitt, Wilmore; and two grandchildren, Jessica C. Griffitt and Joseph J. Griffitt. He also leaves his extended family Julian Tackett, Butch Cope, Marilyn Mitchell, and all the KHSAA staff. He was preceded in death by a son, Wayne A. Ginn; and two sisters, Billie Vanlandingham and Blanche Ginn. Funeral services will be held 10:30 am Mon. at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, Harrodsburg Rd. by Rev. Lee Cox. Burial will follow in Lexington Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Joe Angolia, Michael Barren, Darren Billberry, Rob Catron, Chad Collins, Butch Cope, Julian Tackett, and Jeremy Ison. Honorary pallbearers will be Robert, James, Rhodes and Mike Carr and Hays Cowley. Visitation will be 4-8 Sun. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Arlington Christian Church, 1206 N. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40505.

As a note, the KHSAA will be closed on Monday, August 3 during the funeral and burial services to allow the staff to participate.