How did Bessel functions come to be denoted by $J_n$? The $n$th Bessel function of the first kind is usually denoted $J_n(x)$.  
Where did the use of the letter $J$ to indicate the Bessel function come from?
 A: " Bessel defined the function now known by his name by the
following definite integral:
$$\int \cos (h\epsilon-k \sin \epsilon) d\epsilon=2\pi I_k^h$$
where $h$ is an integer and the limits of integration are $0$ and $2\pi$. His
$I_k^h$ is the same as the modern $J_h(k)$, or rather $J_n$(x).
O. Schlomilch
following P. A. Hansen explained the notation $J_{\lambda±n}$ where $\lambda$ signifies
the argument and $\pm$ the index of the function. Schlomilch usually
omits the argument. Watson points out that Hansen and Schlomilch
express by $J_{\lambda,n}$ what now is expressed by $J_n(2\lambda)$. Schlafly marked it $^nJ(x)$. Todhunter uses the sign $J_n(x)$. $J_n(x)$ is known as the "Bessel function of the first kind of order $n$," while $Y^n(x)$, an allied function
introduced in 1867 by Karl Neumann is sometimes called "Newmann's Bessel function of the second kind of order $n$." It is sometimes marked $Y_n(x)$.
Watson says: "Functions of the types $J \pm (n+1/2)(z)$ occur with
such frequency in various branches of Mathematical Physics that
various writers have found it desirable to denote them by a special
functional symbol. Unfortunately no common notation has been
agreed upon and none of the many existing notations can be said to
predominate over the others. He proceeds to give a summary of
the various notations
in his Theory of Bessel Functions, pages 789, 790, Watson gives a
list of 183 symbols used by him as special signs pertaining to that
subject. "
This, in outermost quotes is a paragraph taken from Cajori's Book "A history of Mathematical Symbols" , clause 664, pg 279, vol-II explaining the symbol chosen for Bessel Function of the first kind. Hope it helps.
Cajori, F., A history of mathematical notations. Vol. II: Notations mainly in higher mathematics., XVIII + 367 p., 20 fig. Chicago, The Open Court Publishing Company (1929). ZBL55.0002.02.f
