Kent E. Smith, 64, of Mendota, passed away February 3, 2022 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, Rockford surrounded by loved ones.

A memorial service will be Thursday, February 10, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at the Victory Baptist Church, Mendota with Pastor Steven Breedlove officiating. Visitation will be held from 9-11 a.m. Thursday in the church. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.

Kent was born December 16, 1957 in Peru to Walter "Ed" and Jean (Currie) Smith. He married Mercy Harris on August 4, 2001 in a waterfall ceremony in Bureau County.

Kent was a 1977 graduate of LaSalle-Peru High School. He was an active member of Victory Baptist Church and a Blue Cap leader for Disaster Relief. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and belonged to the Christian Motorcycle Association. He loved spending time with his family and friends and especially his grandchildren. He also loved to go fishing and hunting.

Kent is survived by his wife Mercy of Mendota; three daughters Abbie (Dillon) Mattingly of Manlius, Bryanna (Nick) Kunz of New Bedford and Mecca (Sal) Guerrero of Ohio, IL; step son Robert Romanoski; step daughter Christina Romanoski; sister Terri ( Michael) Smith of Peru and 8 grandchildren Landen Mattingly, Maci Mattingly, Maya Kunz, Brantley Kunz, Colton Kunz, Jasper Guerrero, Lincoln Guerrero and Amelia Guerrero.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Gary.

Memorials may be directed to Victory Baptist Church. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com