Behavioral health administrator, Harvard Press photographer, hiker, and traveler
Kent Boynton. (Courtesy photo)
John Kent Boynton, 77, of Harvard died peacefully at his home on June 8, 2025, from ALS.
Kent was born in Dallas, Texas, to John Loren Boynton, a Dallas banker, and Effie Louise (Mackay) Boynton, a professional singer.
Kent was a graduate of Highland Park High School in University Park, Texas, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Austin College. He then went on to receive his master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington and doctorate in social welfare from the Heller School at Brandeis University. He began his career as a social worker in child protective services, later becoming a behavioral health administrator in inpatient and outpatient settings and a psychotherapist.
A native Texan who fell in love with New England, Kent moved his family from Dallas to Harvard in 1995. He supported his sons in education, sports, Boy Scouts, and music, and encouraged them to pursue what made them happy and to stick with things when challenges arose. He spent later years traveling to Europe with his wife, Mary Jo, and friends, hiking on long treks throughout France and northern Italy, and exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Kent was deeply compassionate, calm, and supportive. He was an avid photographer, camera collector, hiker, traveler, lover of cinema, art, and sports, and deep learner of philosophy and societal topics. He held a black belt in Aikido, which he practiced for over 40 years. When he could no longer practice martial arts, he became a passionate pickleball player. Kent stayed active for as long as he could, and dove into each hobby with full intensity and dedication.
His calming demeanor was inspiring. While he tended to be quieter, he also enjoyed a good Texas tall tale and long laughing sessions with his family and friends. He valued good experiences, making people laugh, and creating memories. His family is relieved that he is now at peace.
Kent is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mary Jo Boynton; his sons, Matthew Boynton (Victoria Pascoe), and Adam Boynton (Emily Cardenas); his brother, Donald Boynton; sisters Celia Andrus (Jeff) and Hilda Jaffe (David); his cherished granddaughters, Charlotte and Louise Boynton; and many lifelong friends.
Burial will be private with a memorial gathering at a later date. Donations in Kent’s memory may be made to The ALS Therapy Development Institute, www.als.net.
