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Kent Hinnant was born in Norfolk, Virginia on January 20, 1944 and spent his childhood in Virginia Beach and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Florida Atlantic University and afterward entered the Peace Corps. During his time with the Peace Corps, he taught biology in Hawaii and then spent two years establishing a fisheries program in Fiji. After serving on various boards of non-profit organizations, he concentrated on those which promoted beach safety and history.Being very close to his father Dusty Hinnant, he participated in the inner workings of the lifeguard service from a young age, returning to take on a leadership role following the Peace Corps. He was extremely proud that the family provided continuous lifesaving services for the city of Virginia Beach from 1930 through the present. Kent was a humble man who was grateful that he lived a life doing what he loved alongside young men and women from all over Hampton Roads.He is survived by his immediate family: wife, Linda Hinnant, and daughter, Dr. Lee Coleman Hinnant of New York City. The family held private services, but would appreciate any donations in his memory be made to either Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network at bcan.org/donate or to Judeo Christian Outreach Center at jcoc.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by the family.
As a young boy in the 60's I grew up each summer working for VBP.
Dusty and Kent were as close to us as our own families.
I have always appreciated working for them and have numerous stories and valuable memories.
Condolences to the entire Hinnant family.
Fondly
Bob Tynes. (24th st / 1965)
Bob Tynes
Coworker
August 12, 2020
We are saddened to learn of the death of Kent, but grateful for his service to our nation with the Peace Corps in Fiji.
Our Condolences,
The National Peace Corps Association
June 25, 2019
Linda and Lee, it was heartbreaking to hear of Kent's passing, and unimaginable to accept that your husband and father, who had such deep love for and pride in his family, has left us all. I will remember him riding the boardwalk wearing his white tee shirt and red swim trunks, I will remember him serving hors d'ouvres when I was fortunate to be a guest at your home during the holidays, I will remember him driving his truck to work with his precious dog. He had so many admirable dimensions, and I pray that those intimately special memories of him that brought you such joy help you both during this difficult time.
Fran Johnson
June 3, 2019
Fran Johnson
June 3, 2019
Linda and Lee....we are so saddened to learn of Kent's passing.
We have many fond memories of him, his friendship will always hold a special place in our heart! Sending love and prayers to you both.
Barbara and Lee Van Deman
May 30, 2019
Kent Hinnant belongs on the Mount Rushmore of beach greats. He touched so many lives, always kind and helpful to others. Virginia Beach won't be the same without him, God bless the Hinnant family, heaven now has both Duke and Dusty.
Linwood Branch
May 28, 2019
Linda, we worked together at VB Hospital in Cardiology when you volunteered during the early 70's with Dr. Dickinson. You knew me as Maria Applebach (or Hanbury). I've always remembered your unique lifestyle, and was sorry to read of your husbands recent passing. May your wonderful memories comfort you at this difficult time.
Maria Maloney
May 23, 2019
It has always been a reassuring pleasure knowing Duke. His calming and friendly demeanor always made me feel at ease. I was a lifeguard on the Beach Service in the early seventies. The highlight of any day was when Duke stopped by the lifeguard stand to check how things were going. It is indeed a sad time in the lives of myself and anyone who knew Duke. All will miss him dearly. To all members of the Hinnant family I ask that you allow my strength to be yours as you recover from this monumental loss of a truly great person.
Bruce sedel
May 22, 2019
Linda and Lee, I was saddened to hear that Kent had passed away. As Steve said, we have so many great memories of all of you and Ellington's. Both of my brothers worked as lifeguards for Kent and truly admired him as a person and a boss. May loving memories of Kent ease your loss and bring you comfort and peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nylia Laney
May 22, 2019
It was always a pleasure working with you as a reporter for The Pilot. Rest in peace, my friend.
Bill Reed
May 21, 2019
Linda and Lee, I'm so very sad to read of Kent's passing. So many fond memories of your visits to Ellington's, back in the day. I pray your warm, loving memories of Kent will bring peace and comfort to you.
Steve Proescher
May 21, 2019
Ms. Linda and Lee, very sorry to hear of the passing of Kent. Fond memories of the family for many years. All our best -
The Scarborough's
Elizabeth Johnson
May 21, 2019
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