Obituary of Leah G. Kent

Mrs. Leah G. Kent (Lapoint), 88, died peacefully at her son's home in Saratoga Springs, NY on July 6th 2016. Born February 27, 1928 in Canton, NY, Leah rode home from the hospital in a horse drawn sleigh. She treasured memories of her childhood as one of 10 children on the family farm. Living in a small cabin with no running water or electricity, she fondly recalled an abundance of love, laughter, and family togetherness. She would say they worked hard but never knew it; that they didn't have much by today's standards but always had more than needed and enough to share with others. These qualities of family togetherness, simplicity, hard work, perseverance, and generosity were woven into the fabric of her being, Leah moved to Syracuse after high school to attend business college and work as a secretary. She married Edward Kent, then worked at home to raise their four children. Later, Leah worked at Bishop Ludden High School. Ed passed away in 1984. After retirement in 1990 Leah lived a full and active life, volunteering at church, and enjoying time with family, friends, neighbors, including her dear friend and neighbor of 50 years, Mrs. Leo (Rose) Boyle. She remained at home in Syracuse as long as possible, until 2014, when health needs necessitated a move to her son's home in Saratoga Springs. Baptised as a young adult, Leah remained firm in her Catholic faith throughout all of life's ups and downs. She was a communicant of St. Charles Church for over 60 years, active in many ministries- most recently a dedicated member of the human development and funeral guilds. She enjoyed clipping coupons and stocking up on sales in order to make the most of her donations to the food pantry, bake sales, or other projects for the less fortunate. Leah possessed great perseverance and fortitude. No matter the obstacle, she resolutely continued forward to the greatest extent of her ability. This quality was never more evident than in her last few months, facing great challenges with good-natured determination. Even those who briefly encountered Leah were touched by her sweet, loving, and selfless disposition, always putting the needs of others before her own. This remained true even in her final days as she consoled those who were grieving and based decisions on how loved ones would be affected. Leah remembered birthdays and important anniversaries - not only of close family members but also extended family and friends. Although a testament to her incredible memory (which made her a great card player too!) it says more about her loving nature. Each person mattered to Leah and each person's life was worth remembering. Leah was a talented cook and many clamoured for her delicious baked goods. Every Christmas she baked hundreds of cookies, making sure to include the preferences of each family member. Love was the main ingredient for all of her food, baked into the specially prepared favorites for each and every loved one. Family brought Leah great joy, especially her beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Holding them up in constant prayer, she faithfully prayed the rosary as well as other specific prayers for each one individually. Leah never spoke of this deep prayer life. But in her final weeks the fruits of her lifelong practice were an inspiration for all. As the rosary was prayed bedside, her lips moved in attempts to pray aloud; with great effort, she struggled to make the sign of the cross. Peace filled the room as a breath of heaven, consoling her loved ones amidst their sorrow. Leah was predeceased by husband Edward A. Kent; parents Earl & Erma Lapoint; siblings Clarence, Carlton, Harriet, Keitha, Marilyn, & Patricia. She is survived by siblings Lawrence, Freda Preston (Duane) & Erma Gerardi; children Edward Kent (Elene), Thomas Kent (Lisa), Daniel Kent (Gail), & Kathleen Gordon; grandchildren, Jennifer Simmons (Michael), Candace Gordon, Tiffany O'Gorman (Robert), Elise Bernanke (Joel), Justin Kent (Ishita), Joshua Kent, Ryan Kent, great-grandchildren Jessica, Gavin; many nieces and nephews. Leah was grateful to those who cared for her. Especially Dr. Patrick Lynch, Dr. Catherine Dawson, and Dr. Ayeesha Sooriabalan; Robin Robinson and Ashley Mollica; The Staffs of Saratoga Hospital D1 and Rubin Dialysis Center. Beloved Leah, your selfless love, enduring faith, and final perseverance will remain as your legacy in the lives of all who love you until the day we will once again be united for all eternity. Pray for us. Rest in Peace. "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Father." Contributions in Leah's memory may be made to St. Charles/St. Ann's Food Pantry, 4461 Onondaga Blvd. Syracuse, NY 13219 or St. Clement's Outreach, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866