Dates
Joe Kent, 90, beloved father and Poppy, passed away on October 16, 2025. Born March 25, 1935, in Sweetwater, Texas, to Owen and Thelma Kent. He is survived by his daughter Janis Jenkins and her husband, Randall; his granddaughter Baylee Jenkins; and his grandson Logan Jenkins.
Joe graduated from Newman High School in Sweetwater and attended Hardin-Simmons University before joining the U.S. Air Force. He served in Korea and was a proud veteran. After his military service, Joe worked for Tom's Foods for 15 years, was self-employed for several years, and later worked for the City of San Angelo for 16 years before retiring. He married LaRae (Nix) on August 19, 1958. They shared 62 years of marriage until her passing in 2021.
Joe was a Master Mason in good standing and a valued member of Sweetwater Lodge No. 571 (Grand Lodge of Texas) for over 50 years. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping, and he shared his love of the outdoors with his family at their cabin on Oak Creek Lake. After retiring, Joe became an avid amateur radio enthusiast, known by the call sign W5UI. He and LaRae traveled to many "swapfests," where ham radio operators would meet to exchange ideas and equipment, and they participated in several Field Day events with the San Angelo Amateur Radio Club. One of Joe's most memorable trips was to Lajitas, Texas, where he and fellow "hams" helped with the Lajitas Bicycle Challenge. He was also a member of the National Association for Amateur Radio for over 25 years.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, LaRae; and his son, Gregg. He loved his family deeply and lived a full, good life. He was deeply loved and will be missed tremendously. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is in the arms of Jesus, reunited with LaRae and Gregg.
The family would like to thank Randi and Christina of Concho Hearts Hospice for their compassionate care and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.