Joe and Mary Kent exemplify thoughtful leadership, generosity, and deep engagement — qualities that have shaped both their lives together and the Lakewood community they call home. 

Mary Kent, a lifelong Richmonder, grew up near Forest Hill Park and attended school in the city she still loves. Coming from a lively and intellectually curious household, Mary was influenced early on by family dinner-table conversations that encouraged listening, learning, and thoughtful discussion. Her father was the Virginia State Librarian, her siblings pursued higher education, and her mother — considered by Mary to be the “grammar police” — instilled precision, creativity, and curiosity. Mary later found inspiration in a remarkable mathematics professor at Hollins College, a woman whose intellect and resilience left a lasting impression. Though Mary trained in mathematics, her lifelong passion for art — evident since childhood — would later play a transformative role at Lakewood. 

Joe Kent is also a Richmond native. A “war baby,” Joe spent his earliest years surrounded by family, particularly his grandparents, who played a central role in his upbringing. From weekly fishing trips (even when no fish were caught) to steady encouragement, they fostered his love of learning and curiosity. Joe attended the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar, where exceptional professors — including one of the country’s leading mathematicians — helped shape his academic path and future career. 

Joe and Mary met in the summer of 1965 in classic Richmond fashion — in a parking lot on the Fourth of July. What began as a simple act of helping Mary cover her convertible soon turned into a first date at the drive-in, a cleverly retrieved cooler, and a love story that moved quickly. They were engaged just months later, launching a partnership that has lasted more than five decades. 

After their marriage, the Kents spent time in Charlottesville while Joe completed his doctorate, then briefly moved to Florida before returning to Richmond in 1973. Joe joined the University of Richmond, where he taught mathematics and later computer science, eventually helping to build the university’s computer science program. His career spanned academia, technology, and innovation. Towards the end of his career, Joe moved into University Administration, serving as Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences, then Associate Provost, and finally as Interim Provost during his final year at the University of Richmond. 

Mary built a successful career in electronic banking, including work on early ATM networks that helped make banking accessible nationwide and internationally. She ultimately retired as Vice President and Debit Card Manager for SunTrust Bank of Richmond in 2000. While her work was demanding, retirement gave her the space to return to her first love: art. She joined the James River Art League in 2005, serving in many positions on their Board, including as President. She was proud to be the recipient of their William H. Youngblood award for service in 2019. Watercolor painting became not only a personal passion, but the foundation for one of Lakewood’s most impactful resident-led initiatives. 

When Joe and Mary decided it was time to downsize, they looked carefully at continuing care communities throughout the region. Lakewood stood out for its thoughtful design, pet-friendly policies, clarity in planning, and sense of momentum. When the opportunity arose to move into new construction with customization options and a clear timeline, they knew Lakewood was the right fit. 

Since moving in, the Kents have become deeply woven into community life. Mary has served on Resident Council, chaired the Dining Committee, and stepped in as secretary when the need arose — sometimes holding both roles at once. Her leadership was always driven by service, not spotlight. 

Mary’s most lasting contribution was the creation of Lakewood’s Art Gallery. Recognizing a missing creative outlet, she partnered with staff to transform a dim hallway into a vibrant gallery space — redesigning lighting, selecting a professional hanging system, organizing exhibitions, and launching the first resident and staff art show with a ribbon cutting. It remains one of her proudest accomplishments. Her passion for the arts also helped create the Visual Art Fund for Lakewood – a means to raise money to compliment the community’s budget for supplies and instruction. 

Joe shares Mary’s spirit of service in his own way. A longtime volunteer with Feed More, he has delivered food and organized school-based distribution for more than 15 years. He has served on Resident Council, chaired and supported the Dining Committee, and frequently steps in wherever help is needed. A dedicated cyclist, Joe has logged tens of thousands of miles and even used his passion for biking to help raise significant funds for Alzheimer’s research — riding mile after mile around Lakewood to support a greater cause. 

Together, Joe and Mary are motivated by a shared belief in staying engaged, paying it forward, and finding purpose in helping others. They see volunteering not just as service, but as a pathway to connection, growth, and joy. 

When asked what they value most about Lakewood, both point immediately to the people — the warmth and professionalism of staff, the friendships formed with fellow residents, and the sense that Lakewood is a place where life continues to grow richer. 

Joe and Mary Kent don’t seek recognition, but their influence is undeniable. Through leadership, creativity, humor, and generosity, they have helped shape Lakewood into a more vibrant, connected, and beautiful place to live. 

It is with deep gratitude and admiration that we honor Joe and Mary Kent as this year’s Lakewood Influencers.