Bob Edward “Wordy” Kent, 96, went home to be with his Lord on October 13, 2021 in Shreveport, Louisiana. Services will be held on Tuesday, October 19th at 11 AM at Hill Crest Memorial Chapel – Blanchard. Visitation will begin at 10 AM and a graveside will follow at Bethel Primitive Baptist Church. Elder Joe Asbell will preside over the service.
Wordy is preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 59 years, Maxine Kent and daughter-in-law Jenny Kent. Left to cherish his memory are his two children Eddie Kent (Jenny) and Nancy Lockey (Billy). Also left to cherish his memory are his 6 grandchildren Gene Kent (Amy), Kelly Bennett (Dave), Tommy Kent (Frances), Brian Frazier (Heather), Brett Frazier (Lisa), and Jamie Beverage (Chuck) and 15 great grandchildren.
Wordy was born to Tom and Bessie Kent on March 23, 1925 in Shreveport, Louisiana where he was a life long resident. Wordy was one of 15 children with all having preceded him in death except for his baby brother Daniel Kent whom he spent many countless hours sharing and creating a lifetime of wonderful memories.
After returning from service in World War II, Wordy married the love of his life Maxine in 1946. Wordy and Maxine started their life on his family property where they built and added on to their home room by room as they were able. Wordy continued to live there until his death.
Most people remember Wordy as a well-known painting contractor. Wordy took pride in his work and his reputation led him to have a successful business well into his 70’s. Maxine always was present with him while he painted, assisting in any way he needed, and always ready with a sandwich and an RC cola.
When Wordy wasn’t painting, he could be found pickin’ with his bluegrass buddies in his home, festivals, nursing homes, the Blanchard Town Hall, and various other locations. Gardening was his main passion in addition to both camping and brim fishing.
Wordy was a life-long member and deacon at Bethel Primitive Baptist Church where he also led the church in singing hymns. Living across the street from his church meant he was almost always the one unlocking the doors and turning off lights when the service was over. Wordy took great pride watching over the church and the property that his family played a pivotal role in establishing at that location when he was a child.
Wordy was outgoing, welcoming, and well-liked by all who knew him and enjoyed spending time with his many friends and family. Wordy took great joy in taking his grandkids fishing, camping, and spending his time in the swing where many people would come by and sit and talk.
One thing that we know for sure is that our Daddy and Papaw is now in Heaven rejoicing with his Lord. He is singing, pickin’, fully healed, and whole.
Pallbearers will be Gene Kent, Brian Frazier, Brett Frazier, Tommy Kent, Chuck Beverage, Chase Kent.