His family meant the world to Duane Charles Kent of Mobile, Alabama, a financial advisor who loved helping people.

He died peacefully on Monday, March 18, 2024, at The Retreat Hospice by Saad. He donated his body to the University of South Alabama Anatomical Gifts Program. He was 83.

Duane was raised in Altamont, graduated from Guilderland Central High School, Class of 1958, was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, and son of Irene Kent who was a math teacher at Guilderland High School for many years.

Mr. Kent graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona with a degree in forestry. He spent his early career managing sawmills out west. When he moved to Mobile, Alabama in 1981, he became involved with Primerica Financial Services, and licensed in insurance, investments, and all financial areas.

“One of his greatest loves was helping people become financially independent,” his family wrote in a tribute.

“Duane enjoyed RVing out west and all along the southern states with his wife, Diane,” the tribute said. “He loved his church family, singing with the choir and giving hugs to all the members. He volunteered tirelessly in his community, always seeking out opportunities to make a positive impact and uplift those in need.

“He was the chapter chairperson of the UsToo Prostate Cancer Support Group for many years. He worked with Eric Reynolds, Fox 10 News, Mobile, to encourage others to attend prostate cancer screenings. Duane also worked tirelessly with the National Alliance on Mental Illness serving on the board and managing the yearly NAMI Mobile walks.

“He mirrored his father and had a natural ability to build and or repair anything, which he generously shared with others. Duane was a servant-hearted individual whose life was defined by selflessness and compassion and, if anyone ever needed anything, he would find time to help.

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Duane Charles Kent is survived by his loving wife, Diane Kent; children, Jason Kent (Lelani), Lisa Kent, Jennifer Patton, and Jill Patton; grandchildren, Majesty, Dynasty, Emily, Olivia, Ashley (Chris), and Madelyn Claire; and great-grandchildren, Louis, Elise, Margaret, and Michael.

He is also survived by his dear sister, Myrna Myers; niece Katie Stewart (Bob); and nephew John Myers (Kelly) and other numerous nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Karen Hutchens; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Linda and Steve White.

“He loved the laughter and memories he made with all his family, and it meant the world to him,” the tribute said.

His parents, Irene and Ken Kent, died before him, as did his grandson, Stephen F. Lott Jr., and his brothers-in-law, Reed Myers and Gary Hutchens.

“We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the compassionate team at Covenant Care Hospice and The Retreat Hospice by Saad for their unwavering support and exceptional care during Duane’s end-of-life journey,” the tribute said. “Their dedication and kindness provided immense comfort to Duane and his family during a challenging time. We are forever grateful for their professionalism, guidance, and empathy.”

A Celebration of Life and Thanksgiving for his life will be held on April 2 at Christ United Church Sanctuary in Mobile, Alabama.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.