CURRENT CELEBRATIONS

Godfrey Bent

With broken hearts and sadness, we say goodbye to Godfrey Bent, who went to his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024. He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many. We remember the loving husband to Mauver, devoted father to Andre, Natalie and Dwayne, cherished grandfather to Amaris and Trevor, dedicated friend, inspiring teacher, accomplished investment banker and wonderful person that Godfrey was. Though gone, his memory will forever remain a beacon of light in our lives and his legacy will live on.

Godfrey was born on April 23, 1942 to Egbert and Clarry Bent in Morningside, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. He attended Mico Teacher’s College and began teaching at several primary schools in St. Elizabeth including Santa Cruz All Age School and Litiz All Age School. Forging his passion as an educator, he went on to teach at Junction Secondary School, now known as BB Coke High School. He attained both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Science from Central Connecticut State University in 1978 and 1979, respectively and both with honors. He returned to Jamaica and continued teaching at Junction Secondary School and mathematics at Munro College. His life as an educator culminated as he became Vice Principal of Junction Secondary School. He also was a CXC examiner, marking completed examinations as well as developing questions for the test. Throughout his career as a teacher, he found intriguing ways to engage his students including using music to increase attendance on Fridays. He was beloved by his former students; many of whom became close friends. His leadership and creativity at Munro led to the development of several enhancements to the school. Similarly at Junction, he advocated for and was responsible for the first bus at Junction Secondary School.

In the mid-1980s, Godfrey migrated to New York in the United States. He quickly realized that teaching was not for him in the States and sought to rebrand his career. He used his strong analytical skills and love for numbers to forge a new career path as an investment banker. He obtained post-graduate diplomas in Financial Management and Debt Securities (stocks and bonds). He worked for several banks in New York including First American Bank of New York, First Bank of the Americas and DZ Bank, investing in securities, where he ended his career as a consultant and Vice President.

After marrying Veronica Bent nee Alvaranga, Godfrey welcomed his first child, Andre, into the world. He cherished his role as a father and shared many fond memories with Andre (married to Marjorie). Later in life, Godfrey found love again and married Mauver Bent nee Legister with whom he had known since they were children. They were married for nearly 40 years and only separated by Godfrey’s passing. Together, they welcomed two children, Natalie Bernard nee Bent (married to Trevor) and Dwayne Bent. He had two grandchildren, Amaris and Trevor Charles and cherished both of them. He was a wonderful brother to his siblings, Canute, Vivian, Trasvin (deceased), Enid (deceased), O’Neil (deceased), and Ernie (deceased). He was always incredibly proud of his family and their roots within the St. Elizabeth community.

Godfrey loved life and found time to devote to several hobbies and interests. He loved music, playing dominoes, volleyball, cricket, baseball (dedicated NY Yankees fan) and enjoyed good food and fruits, especially robin mangoes. He loved laughing and bringing out the joy in others, especially with his sense of humor. He left a legacy of love and compassion, unwavering resilience and dedication to family and friends that will not be forgotten.

Come celebrate 82 great years, Friday May 17, noon to 1 p.m. at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 212 North Main Street, Glassboro where there will be a 1 p.m. service.