Initially named President of the National Basketball Association, he later became known as the organization's commissioner. He served in this capacity from 1963 until 1975.
His childhood affliction with polio struck down his own athletic aspirations, but he was determined to remain involved with Sports in some capacity.
He attended the University of Notre Dame and later worked for his alma mater's athletic department.
He had three children: David, Robert, and Kathy.
Basketball star Earvin Magic Johnson was a recipient of the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award.
