John Taylor Lentz Obituary
We bid farewell to John Taylor Lentz of Hickory, North Carolina, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on November 29, 2025 at the age of 73. John Taylor touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Harry Lentz and Lillian Taylor Lentz; and his siblings, Bill Lentz and Susan Lentz. He is survived by: his wife Judi Downing Lentz; his son Bryan Lentz (Christy); his grandsons, Luke and Owen of Knoxville, Tenn; his daughter Michelle Lentz; his grandchildren, Havyn, Brayden and Brenlyn of Hickory; and his sister Leslie Branda of Naples, FL..
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 21st 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Lenoir Rhyne University (625 7th Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28601).
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the John T. Lentz Basketball Scholarship Fund (https://www.givecampus.com), so that future generations of Bears can benefit from the passion, toughness, and heart that defined his remarkable life and career. Keep John's legacy alive by donating to a charity in need.
