Anne Runs in Honor of Her Husband, LCpl Jay L Lente
Anne Lente is preparing to run the Marine Corps Marathon in honor of her late husband, LCpl Jay L Lente—a devoted father, husband, and Marine. “Jay was a generous, kind-hearted man who lived with purpose, heart, and laughter,” Anne shares. “On our reservation, he would haul, cut, and deliver firewood to elderly community members, always ready to help. Becoming a Marine was his lifelong dream, inspired by his uncles, and he quickly became a trusted leader among his peers.”
Jay’s joy came not only from service but from family. “He loved being a father. He was proud of our children and embraced every moment of parenthood. His sense of humor, warm smile, and playful spirit brought joy to everyone around him,” Anne remembers. Even in basic training, Jay’s energy earned him the nickname “Loco,” a reflection of the playful spirit that defined him.
After Jay’s passing by suicide in 2003, Anne carried grief for 22 years. Now, she is ready to honor his life in a profound way: by completing the marathon she’s long dreamed of running in his name. “Since his passing, I’ve always felt drawn to the Marine Corps Marathon, especially because it sometimes falls on his birthday. The timing feels significant. Running this race is my way of keeping his name alive—not for how his life ended, but for the joy, love, and service he gave so freely.”
Anne’s journey to the Marine Corps Marathon is marked by grit, commitment, and discipline. She runs regularly, showing up even on the hardest days, building strength, endurance, and resilience with each mile. Training has been empowering, teaching her patience, self-belief, and the importance of showing up for herself. Every step reflects not just physical preparation, but also her determination to honor her husband’s legacy through perseverance and purpose.
Joining the wear blue Gold Star and Survivor Endurance Program gives Anne a community that understands the journey of loss, healing, and resilience. “Through this experience, I hope to deepen my connection with Jay’s memory. I want to inspire my family and others who have experienced loss, showing that healing and strength can coexist.”
Anne’s marathon is a tribute to Jay’s legacy, a celebration of love, and a stand against the silence that once surrounded suicide. “Running with wear blue is my way to show that healing is possible and that love and legacy are stronger than stigma. With every step, Jay’s story continues to be told.”
No matter where you are in your journey with grief—whether it’s 22 years or 22 days—wear blue is a community that welcomes you. Find a Community near you and take steps to honor, remember, and heal alongside others who understand.
