Born November 26, 1931 in Collinsville, Illinois. Married 75 years to the love of his life, Patricia L. Mahon, who worked beside him and was a partner in everything he accomplished. Jerry served in the Air Force from 1951 to 1954, graduated from radio school in 1951, and was stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky and Margate, England with the 123rd Fighter Wing.

He was employed for two years before he became an entrepreneur. He founded a real estate and construction company, which built over 1,500 homes throughout the southwestern Illinois area, as well as a number of commercial buildings. Jerry also owned a coin-operated laundry mat, Kent's Frosty Kreme, a mobile home court and apartments. Upon retirement in 1989, he became a deacon and treasurer for his church.

Jerry Kent, a man of devout faith, is survived by his life partner and wife, Patricia; four sons, Kenny, Kevin, Richard, and Jerry; eight grandchildren, Sean Phillip, Kevin Michael, Jeremy, Matthew, Rachel, CiCi and Kyle; and eleven great grandchildren.

Visitation at Parkway Baptist Church, 12465 Olive Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63141, Mon. Sept. 14 from 10-11 a.m. Service at 11 a.m. Private interment. In lieu of flowers, donations to Parkway Baptist Church or the American Heart Association appreciated.