James "Jimmy" Daniel Kent, a lifelong resident of Newport News, died suddenly on January 10, 2021, of natural causes. Jimmy was blessed with the mind of a mathematician and the eye of an artist, which led to a rich life of varied careers, accomplishments, and experiences. He was born October 8, 1959, to Philip and Jeanne Kent. He grew into a man who was technically minded, warm-hearted, and possessing a great sense of humor. A gifted student and athlete at Warwick High School, he was a member of the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society, and was named Best All-Around Athlete his senior year.

For the past twenty years, Jimmy pursued his passion for photography as a staff photographer with Lifetouch National School Studios. His assignments took him all over Tidewater capturing highlights from student athletics throughout the region. His work was featured in ESPN: The Magazine. He also captured more than a decade of iconic images from the North American Sand Soccer Championships, which were featured nationally by the organization. Jimmy worked for 13 years as a machinist at Newport News Shipbuilding. He was a graduate of the Apprentice School, earning a certification in machine shop trades. He also attended Christopher Newport University, majoring in Computer Science.

He always put his family first. Jimmy is survived by his great love and wife, Betty Carroll Kent; brother, Jerry Kent (Heather Austin Kent), of Suffolk, VA; and sister, Nancy Kent Smith (Robert Stephen Smith), of Midlothian, VA. He always made time for his nieces and nephews, Rachel Kent of Philadelphia, PA; Daniel Kent of Martinsburg, WV; and Alexandra Smith of Richmond, VA. His family will never forget his creativity, warmth, and unyielding devotion to those he loved.

Jimmy was a lover of cats and was the caregiver of several that had begun lives as feral kittens. Memorial gifts may be sent to local animal shelters or to the national ASPCA. A remembrance service will be private.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on Jan. 24, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for James Kent

Sponsored by Peninsula Funeral Home & Crematory.

5 Entries

Jeff Sosebee

January 27, 2021

I had the pleasure of knowing Jimmy for many years. In high school he mentored me through my first year as a baseball player at Warwick HS. During the years I became good friends with his family which still remains to this day. His kindness and the love of sports is what I remember most. GOD BLESS YOU!

January 26, 2021

I will fondly always remember Jimmy as a fellow classmate at Warwick who spoke few words , but allowed his many outstanding accomplishments to speak for him . A kind and gentle soul who touched many lives . My thoughts and prayers are with his family .

Sue Brooks

January 25, 2021

I am sorry for your loss Betty, Nancy and Jerry. Jimmy was a good lifelong neighbor and will be missed. I have fond memories of growing up across the street from each other. May the good Lord bring joy to your hearts as you remember good times and comfort to you in your sorrow.

Charlotte Brooks

January 25, 2021

My condolences to Betty, Jeremy, Nancy and their families. I know this is a great loss to you. I would see Jimmy often and wave or talk as I still live across the street and I would run into him frequently at the Y and on a walking trail by Mariner's Museum. I have fond memories of growing up with the Kent Family and waiting at the bus stop to ride the bus to Deer Park Elementary as children. Jimmy was always so calm. A man of few words, but always kind and caring. He reminded me so much of his father who would walk in his driveway for exercise. May the Lord comfort and keep you all during this time.

Dave Morse

January 24, 2021

I had the pleasure to work with Jimmy at Lifetouch for many years. He had a great passion for sports photography and was always proud of the work he produced. He worked hard and loved his job and cared about our customers. I enjoyed our long conversations about what a great sports photo should be. He will be missed but his images will be in yearbooks throughout Hampton Roads forever. RIP Jimmy we will miss you.

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