James W. Lent, Jr.

In Loving Memory

Lieutenant Colonel James Webber Lent, Jr., USMC (Ret.)

Lt. Col. James Webber Lent, Jr., USMC (Ret.), known as Jim, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Newtown Square, PA, one day after his 89th birthday. A decorated Naval Aviator, a devoted husband, and a man of deep principle, strength and great good humor, Jim leaves behind a legacy of loyalty, service, and love.

Jim was born on July 18, 1936, in Tiverton, RI to the late James Webber Lent, M.D. and the late Margaret Sedlock Lent. He was predeceased by his brothers Harry and John and his sister Mary Lou Marnock. He is survived by his sisters Alice Nolan and Jane Saur, sisters-in law Barbara (John) Lent and Jan (Harry) Lent as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. 

He served with honor in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, completing three tours in Vietnam as a Naval Aviator. He flew both helicopters and jets, often from aircraft carriers under dangerous conditions. His dedication and courage earned him the respect of those who served with him. Among his awards were three Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Bronze Stars with Combat V and 42 Air Medals with one meritorious single mission gold star.

After retiring from the Marine Corps, Jim earned his J.D degree from Suffolk Law School, Masters of Law in International Business & Taxation from McGeorge School of Law and went on to run his own legal practice in Irvine, CA.

Jim was also a lifelong musician who loved sharing music with friends and family. He sang, played multiple instruments, wrote music and brought joy to others with his music throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Manahan Breen; his cherished stepdaughter, Kim Oden Harrison; and her beloved daughters Cassie & Haley Harrison. He was predeceased by his first wife, Joann Oden Lent, and her sons Mark & Scott Oden. He is also survived by Joanne Manahan Breen’s children, their spouses - Megan Breen, Patrick Breen (Katie), Kathy Breen Batchelor (Ken), Meredith Breen, & Chrissy Breen Keffer (Mike). He was proud to be known as “Pops” to seventeen grandchildren (Patrick, Brigid & Colin Mulligan; Mary, Dorothy, Thomas, Peter & Helen Breen; Kevin, Jack, Nora, Danny, Timmy & Rosie Batchelor; Will, Katie & Meggie Keffer) – with whom he shared many happy years and memories.

In retirement, Jim enjoyed life in Pensacola, FL, he was active in Rotary Club, Navy League, Propellor Club and Navy Yacht Club past Commodore and Daedalians.

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Monday, July 28, 2025, from 10:00 am – 10:45 am at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church 15 East Pleasant Grove Rd. West Chester, PA 19382; followed by his Funeral Mass at 11:00 am. Internment with military honors will be held at the Ft. Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Rd, Pensacola, FL 32508 on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers , memorials may be donated in Jim’s memory to RIAHOF  P.O.Box 28701, Providence, RI 02908, the Rhode Island Aviation Hall of Fame to which he was inducted.

Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. of West Chester, PA 610-696-1181; www.DellaFH.com.