Norris Kent

Norris Bedford Kent, of Forney, Texas, passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 93. He was born on May 9, 1932 to parents Robert Lee Kent and Grace (Abernathy) Kent and spent his childhood in Groesbeck, Texas.

Norris joined the U.S. Army in 1947 and served as Private First Class in the Military Police until 1949. He was always proud to have served his country. Norris married his wife, Karen, on November 2, 1974, and they were happily married for 50 years. Norris worked 31 years as a truck driver for Jacob E. Decker, and later 12 years for Walmart before retiring in 1994. He was a lifetime member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in Mesquite, Texas and also a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Dallas, Texas.

Norris lived life to the fullest. He never met a stranger and made friends everywhere he went. He always loved a good party and had numerous stories to tell. He and Karen loved to dance and travel. During their marriage, they sailed on twenty-five cruises and traveled to over twenty resorts.

Norris is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lee and Grace Kent; and his five brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Townley Kent; daughter, Karen J. Kent Tarver; two grandchildren, Melissa Tarver and Brandon Tarver; four great-grandsons, Jared and Brett Stevens, and Tristan and Jordan Tarver; two great-great-grandchildren, Anna and Barrett Stevens; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Norris will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, May 16, 2025 at the New Hope Funeral Home in Sunnyvale, Texas. A graveside service and burial will be held at Faulkenberry Cemetery in Groesbeck, Texas.