The Maui News

KAHULUI – When the Pioneer Inn was lost in the Lahaina fire last August, the community and island felt the loss of a historic and beloved hotel. Now, nearly a year after the oldest operating hotel in Maui was lost, the longtime co-owner of the historic Front Street hotel has passed away.

His wife and business partner, Becky, wrote the following of her loving husband –

“James Howard Lennon, Jr., age 74, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2024, at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Jim, as he was affectionately known, led a life rich in accomplishments and service.

Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, Jim graduated from Highland Park High School in 1968. He continued his education at the University of Arkansas, where he was a proud charter member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, and later earned a master’s degree in agriculture from Texas A&M University.

Jim’s professional journey took him across continents and industries. He began his career as the European director for the United States Meat Export Federation, playing a pivotal role in trade relations between the United States and Europe. Subsequently, he ventured into entrepreneurship, founding multiple successful businesses supplying pharmaceutical companies with essential products for drug manufacturing and research.

For the past twenty-six years, Jim dedicated himself to co-owning and operating the beloved Pioneer Inn in Lahaina, where he warmly welcomed guests and fostered a sense of community.

Outside of his career, Jim found deep fulfillment in his service with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Lahaina Sunrise Rotary Club. He cherished his time outdoors, indulging in his passions for hunting, fishing, and exploring diverse cultures during his travels worldwide.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of fifty years, Becky Lennon, his daughter Heather O’Dea (Jim), son James “Bryan” Lennon (Leslie), and his cherished grandchildren, Michael, Abby, Rebecca, Lucy, Thomas, Rylie, Margaret, Harper, and Eliza. His sister Kelly Lennon and niece Hailey Lennon. He is also remembered fondly by his faithful dog, Sam.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Howard Lennon, Sr. and Elizabeth Lynn Hailey.

A funeral service to celebrate Jim’s life was held at St. Bernard of Clairvaux on July 10 at 11:00 a.m., where friends and family gathered to honor his memory. Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones and community.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Rotary Club of Lahaina Sunrise, in Jim’s honor. https://www.lahainasunriserotary.org/.

Jim Lennon’s legacy of compassion, service, and adventurous spirit will forever live on.”