Dolly Mae Kent

Dolly Mae Kent, 88, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on January 29, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on November 3, 1937, in Fort Benning, Georgia, to her parents, Henry James Smith and Gladys Leila Dela Chalkley, Dolly grew into a woman whose life was marked by faith, kindness, and a heart that welcomed everyone she met.

On July 3, 1954, Dolly married the love of her life, Stanley Kent, beginning a marriage built on devotion, partnership, and shared purpose. They moved to Dallas, Texas in 1959, and then to Waxahachie in 1979. They became faithful members of Heritage Baptist Church from its very beginning in 1981, pouring their hearts into their church family and serving with steadfast commitment.

Dolly cherished her family deeply. She was a devoted mother who found immense joy in caring for and supporting those she loved. Her affection for her children and grandchildren was constant and unconditional.

A woman who truly never met a stranger, Dolly was known for her warm hugs, gentle smile, and the way she made every person feel seen and loved. She had a special place in her heart for children and delighted in sharing God’s love with others. Her sweet spirit touched countless lives, and her kindness left an imprint that will not fade.

Dolly’s legacy is one of faith, compassion, and love freely given. She will be deeply missed by her family, her church, her friends at Buffalo Creek Assisted Living, and all who were blessed to know her. Her memory will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the love she shared.

Dolly was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Gladys Smith; her brothers, James Smith, Clarence Smith, Pete House, and Riley Snow; her beloved husband, Stanley Kent; her son, Eddie Kent; and many cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is survived by four of her children: Debbie Kent Gomez; Donnie Kent and his wife, Laura; Rodney Kent and his wife, Shree; and Teresa Kent.

In addition, she is survived by her sister, Mary John “Pumpkin” Stephens, and her husband, Linward.

She is also lovingly survived by many grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Wayne Boze Funeral Home, 1826 US 287 Business, Waxahachie, TX 75165.

The funeral service will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church, 1000 Butcher Road, Waxahachie, TX 75165.