John R. Trent

John was born on November 2, 1940, in Knoxville, TN. He was raised as an only child by his adoptive parents Nicholas and Elma Trent. John met the love of his life, Carol Margaret Bryant, while attending high school at Ben Lippen School in Asheville, NC. They married in December of 1960 and John joined the Air Force shortly thereafter. While in the Air Force he discovered a love for flying that stayed with him for the rest of his life. John made a career of the military, staying in for 27+ years and retiring at the Pentagon with the rank of Lt. Colonel. During this time, he and Carol were also raising their three sons – Jonathan, Philip, and Chris. The military taught him to fly jets, but his true passion was flying small planes. He felt they were more of a challenge and that is what he lived for, the challenge. He always hoped that one of his sons or grandchildren would share his passion for flying.

During his time in the Air Force, John built a couple of homes and decided that home building would be his next challenge when he retired. The first place he and Carol moved to after retirement was Denton, TX. He built custom homes and various other projects in the North Dallas, Denton, and Carrollton area for the next 20+ years; always trying to provide the highest quality product to the customer that he could. Also, while in Denton, he served on the City Council. It was during this later stage of his life that he had a chance to grow closer to his family and become more of a mentor and grandfather to his sons and grandchildren.

John is survived by his three sons Jonathan Trent and wife Virginia (Ginger), Philip Trent, and Chris Trent and wife Karen. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and their spouses, Caroline and Randy Norton, John Michael and Megan Trent, Audrey Trent, Jacob Trent, Graham Trent, Drew Trent, Sterling Trent, Ryan Trent, and Avery Trent. Plus, one greatgrandchild, Jonathan Trent.

Dad, you were always good for practical advice and if we ever needed to talk, we could always find you sitting behind that big desk in your office. And every time we see a toothpick we will think of you!