James "Jim" Grisdale Lentz

Jim’s life was one of true love and service to his Church, Family, Friends and Community. He was an inspiration to so many. He was the second child of Ralph and Peg Lentz and grew up in Minneapolis, MN where he eventually met and married the girl next door. After graduating from the University of MN, he served as a pilot and Captain in the Minuteman Missile program for the US Air Force. Once he completed his service in the Air Force, he enjoyed tremendous success in the packaging industry where he spent much of that career working for RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company. RJR brought him and his family to Winston Salem 41 years ago and the entire community is better because of that move.

He served his church and community by donating his time, talent, and treasure to so many organizations including: Catholic Charities, WS Symphony, Prison Ministries, SECU Family House, serving on the board of the Second Harvest Food Bank and earning the first Bishop Curlin award from Catholic Charities reflecting his commitment to helping others. He shared his faith with his Brothers and Sisters of Ultreya and The Knights and Dames of the Order of Malta.

What stood out among his many amazing qualities was his love and devotion to his family. His greatest blessing was Deanne, his incredible wife of 61 years, three children Karey Lynch, Barb Lentz (Mike Smith), Chad Lentz (Andi Lentz), and six grandchildren Zac Lynch (Kayla Lynch), Sam Lentz (Samantha Lentz), Christian Lynch, Alex Lentz, Ben Smith, and Harry Smith. Jim and Deanne enjoyed an exceptional life together full of adventure, love, and faith. Jim’s remarkable ability to listen and truly value everyone he met will always be an inspiration to his family, friends and community.

A Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Sept 14th at St. Leo The Great Catholic Church at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial gifts be made to either Second Harvest Food Bank or Samaritan Ministries.