James Ernest Kent

• Private First-Class James Ernest Kent
• United States Army Veteran
• February 19, 1941 – August 5, 2026
• "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
• 2 Timothy 4:7

Private First-Class James Ernest Kent peacefully entered his Heavenly home on August 5, 2026. Born on February 19, 1941, in Sylvania, Georgia, James lived a life defined by perseverance, service, hard work, integrity, and unwavering love for his family.

Growing up in Sylvania, James worked alongside his family in the cotton fields from a young age. Although his formal education ended after the eighth grade, he never allowed his circumstances to define his future. Through determination and a strong work ethic, he built a successful career and a life he was proud of.

As a young man, James answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He proudly served six years, including Active Reserve, in Heavy Artillery and earned the rank of Private First Class (E-3). He received an Honorable Discharge and remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life.

Following his military service, James continued building a successful career through hard work and dedication. He advanced into management at Wetson's Burgers in New York, later managed in the check-cashing industry, and retired from Amtrak after a distinguished 20-year career as an Accounts Revenue Manager. After relocating to Virginia, he continued serving others through Job Corps, where he mentored young men and advanced into management.

Above all, James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and family man. He leaves behind his beloved and devoted wife, Alicia Kent, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage and 54 years together. Alicia lovingly and faithfully cared for James throughout his illness, remaining by his side with unwavering devotion until his final day.

Together, James and Alicia were blessed with one daughter, Jimesha Kent Greene of Raleigh, North Carolina; her husband, Jamalh Greene; and their two children, Jayla Greene and Jamalh Greene.

James was also the loving father of four daughters whom he shared with the late Faith G. M. Stout Stanton: Hope Carmen Davis of Lynchburg, Virginia, mother of Charity Noel Davis and Wilbert Pierce Davis; Kristin Kent of Charlotte, North Carolina, mother of Don Middleton, Elaina White, and Charles White; First Sergeant Valanteen Kent Skilang, U.S. Army (Retired) of Georgetown, Texas, wife of Sergeant First Class Herman T. Skilang, U.S. Army (Retired), and mother of Burgess T. Waters II, Bryronn T. Waters, and Sheridan A. Yarber; and Jeri Smith of Edgewood, Maryland, mother of Nena Valeria Smith, Kristin Lea Smith, and Jerry Kent Smith. James also leaves behind a host of cherished great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Geraldine Peters; his stepfather, Eugene Peters; his father, Albert Kent; his stepmother, Dimple Kent; and his brother, Alan Peters.

James believed in speaking the truth and always tried his best to lead with integrity. Those who truly knew him understood that his honesty came from a place of love and a genuine desire to share the knowledge and wisdom he had gained throughout his life. He wanted those he loved to learn, grow, and carry something meaningful from the lessons he shared. His honesty, wisdom, strength, and love were simply part of who he was, and those who knew him best loved and appreciated him for exactly that.

James leaves behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, integrity, service, and love that will continue to live on through the generations of his family and the many lives he touched.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Private First-Class James Ernest Kent will be laid to rest with military honors at Calverton National Cemetery in Calverton, New York, where he will receive the honor and recognition befitting his faithful service to the United States Army.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.