2 Timothy 4:7: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith".
James Carlton “J.C.” Kent, Sr., a longtime resident of New Roads, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, at The Butterfly Wing in Baton Rouge, surrounded by love. He was 90 years old.
J.C. was born on February 13, 1936, in Lyons, Louisiana to Milton and Lucille Kent. He was one of sixteen children and carried the values of faith, family, and hard work throughout his life.
J.C. was a graduate of Port Allen High School. A proud veteran, J.C. honorably served in the United States Marine Corps, a service he carried with pride throughout his life.
J.C. retired from Asbestos Workers Local 53 after many years of dedicated work. He was a member of the Capitol City Umpires Association. Beyond his career, he gave back to his community as a coach and umpire for little league and high school baseball and softball, a role he thoroughly enjoyed. He was a faithful member of St. Mary’s of False River Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.
A devoted sports enthusiast, J.C. especially loved all things LSU and could often be found cheering on his favorite team. J.C. loved his family and took great joy in attending his grandchildren’s sporting events, dance recitals, and school events. Those moments were among his greatest joys.
J.C. never met a stranger and knew someone wherever he went. He loved life’s simple but meaningful pleasures — a good gathering with family and friends, sharing good food, listening to gospel and Cajun French music, dancing, a good card game, and a crossword puzzle. He treasured his daily breakfast outings with his dear friend, Bernie David, as well as his Friday morning breakfast runs with his beloved “old man” crew—friendships he valued deeply.
J.C. is survived by his three children: his son, James “Jimmy” Kent Jr. and wife, Melinda; his daughter, Terri Lamb and husband, Steve; and his daughter, Kelli Barker and husband, Dennis. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Brandon Kent (Christy), Kristie Schlatre (Tim), Meagan Landaiche (Jay), Mason Barker, and Madison Barker (Aiden Vosburg); and seven great-grandchildren: Landon, Abbie, and Jaxson Kent; Bryce and Ava Schlatre; and Ellie and Emma Landaiche. He’s also survived by his siblings JD Kent, Donald Kent (Marilyn), Alvin Kent (Patty), Valerie Murphy (Daryl), Shirley Jarreau (Adolph), Joe Kent (Leanne) and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Ida Lee Mix, his infant daughter and infant great-granddaughter, Mallory Landaiche, father Milton Kent, Sr., mother Lucille Kent, siblings Milton Kent, Eloise Savoie, Mary Frances Morganroth, Ethel Jarreau, Eva Fabre, Earline Ellzey, Barbara Morales, Gloria Emick, and Dorothy Kent.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to The Lacour House, the Pointe Coupee Council on Aging, and Mrs. Shelia Duncan for their care, compassion, and support.
J.C. will be remembered for his love of family, his unwavering faith, his love of sports, and the friendships he cherished throughout his life.
A visitation will be held at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads, La., on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 9 am until 11:45 am. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12 noon at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, followed by interment in False River Memorial Park.
Pallbearers will include Brandon Kent, Mason Barker, Tim Schlatre, Jay Landaiche, Landon Kent, Bryce Schlatre and Jaxson Kent.
In lieu of flowers, the family wishes to send donations to Pointe Coupee Council on Aging.
