Memorial Services for Benjamin Franklin Kent, “Benny”, 88, recently of Bedford, TX and formally a long-time resident of Greenville, MS will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, October 7th at First United Methodist Church, Greenville. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. prior to the service. Benny passed away peacefully on September 26th while hospitalized in Bedford, TX.
Born in Greenville, MS to Alfred and Julia Kent on August 15, 1929, Benny lived in Greenville with his family and went to school at Greenville Schools. Upon graduating in May 1948, he began working at Baird and Company where he remained until retirement. Benny also served in the Army as a Staff Sargent from January 1951 until August 1952.
In September 1950, Benny met Jackie Burt of Mayfield, KY. Benny and Jackie married upon his return from the Army on June 21, 1953. Benny and Jackie, with their three children, lived a happy and productive family life in Greenville until moving to Texas in June 2016.
Benny is preceded in death by his father and mother Alfred and Julia (Eastwood) Kent. He also is preceded in death by his sisters Julia Kent, Ruby Steen and one brother James Kent. Benny is survived by his three children Jimmy Kent (Dana Derrow) of Greenville, Cindy Slaydon (Mike Slaydon) of Colleyville, Texas, Mike Kent (Stephanie Mixon) of Oxford, Mississippi; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
As an active member in First United Methodist Church for all his years in Greenville, Benny enjoyed the church, his Sunday school class, both as participant and teacher, and many other church involved functions. Benny also worked many years with the Boy Scouts.
Benny loved being around people and being a part of many programs, clubs, church, and activities. His family, friends and activities were his joys in life.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude for all those who have and do celebrate Benny’s life with them.