DAYVILLE, CT: James E. Parent, 81, died Saturday, February 7th at The Hospital of Central CT in New Britain. He leaves his wife of 54 years, Marie B. (Arseneault) Parent; a son, James A. Parent and his wife Elizabeth of Worcester; a daughter, Jannelle M. Gurski and her husband Mark of Pomfret, CT; a brother, J. Robert Parent, Jr., and his wife Pamela of Leicester; a sister, Jacqueline Wagner, and her husband Stephen of Uxbridge; two grandchildren, Blaise and Evangeline Gurski.

James was the gentlest and kindest soul, who cherished his family and friends. Born in Worcester, he was the son of J. Robert & Jeannette (Soucy) Parent Sr. James graduated from St. Peters High School in Worcester and received his associates degree from Anna Maria College in Paxton. He served his country in the Air Force during the period of the Vietnam War. He continued his career in the military for 34 years, starting as a military technician in the MA Air National Guard, Milford, retiring in 2004, as a Sr. Master Seargent at age 60. During his retirement he was a member of the American Legion in Woodstock, CT, and the 313th ANG.

James’s greatest joy in life came from his family. Many of his fondest memories were made living on Stiles Lake, where he loved taking his children and their friends water skiing and tubing during the summer months. He took tremendous pride in watching his children and grandchildren grow, reach milestones, and achieve their goals. He never missed a chance to cheer them on from the sidelines, attending every game and sporting event he could. Above all, James cherished spending time with the love of his lifetime, Marie; it never mattered what they were doing, as long as they were together.

James also cherished the camaraderie of his 313th buddies, whom he met with faithfully each week for breakfast and golf. Their friendship brought him laughter, connection, and great comfort over the years.

All are invited to attend a visitation Friday, February 13th from 10-11 AM in the J. HENRI MORIN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 23 Maple Terrace, Spencer, MA 01562 with a funeral service to start at 11AM in the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave., Paxton.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Veterans Inc., 6 Sheridan Street, Worcester, MA 01610 or to The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.