Search by Name

Search by Name

Fred Columbus Dent Jr.

Fred Dent Obituary

Fred Columbus Dent Jr. died Sunday, Sept. 12, 2010, with his family by his side. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., Tuesday, Sept. 14, was from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Visitation resumes at the funeral home Wednesday from 8 a.m. until a memorial service at 11 a.m. Interment in St. John's Cemetery, Plaquemine. Fred served as a captain in the Army Special Forces and wore the Green Beret. He was a former state commissioner of financial institutions and in later years headed the group Tax Busters. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ratcliff Dent; children, Fred Dent III, of McLean, Va., Charlie Dent, of Bangkok, Thailand, and Catherine Dent Eliasberg, of Los Angeles; beloved stepdaughter, Judi Arnold Doerle, of Baton Rouge; sister, Joelyn Dent Collins, of Richmond, Va.; special cousin, Fred J. Grace; third and special niece, Winnie Williamson Brown, of New Orleans; and grandchildren, Jennifer Doerle, Gordon Doerle, Connor Dent, Veronica Dent and Oliver Eliasberg; and many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. He loved them all. Preceded in death by his parents, Lucille May Grace and Fred Columbus Dent Sr. Pallbearers will be Fred Grace, Ray Smith, MG Joe Gray, David Ratcliff, Tommy Wallace, Charles "Trolley" Henry, Morty Hurston, Kenneth Pickering, Gordy Doerle, Owen Wall and Peter Eliasberg. Honorary pallbearers are David "Deke" Ratcliff, Earl Wayne Stafford and Hans Sternberg.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Advocate from Sep. 14 to Sep. 15, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Fred Dent

Not sure what to say?





joann

September 8, 2022

At all times I am appreciative of the relationship between our family and that of the Dent family. Even though our family worked for them, they were good friends. Rest in peace Fred.

Joann Thomas

September 8, 2021

I hold dear to my heart the memories shared with me from my grandparents who worked for the Dent family many years ago. Peace and wellness to you all.

joann

September 8, 2020

Many fond memories of our family and his on Highland Road.

Mike Stewart

September 8, 2020

Always remembered!
Fred was my first real mentor and the first person I think of, even today, when I hear the word "Leader." He was instrumental in changing my life through the ROTC and Pershing Rifles at LSU.
I still think of him often and hold his memory in the highest regard.

Joann Thomas

September 9, 2019

As a member of one of the few black families on Highland Road, we were well acquainted with the Dent family. There will always be memories of them in the minds of our older family members. Some of us actually worked in some of their homes and yards. Wishing you all peaceful memories.

Colonel Henry Johnson (ret)

October 10, 2011

Just the other day when i voted early, Captain Fred Dent was on my mind as i voted to double the homestead exemption for our disabled veterans.
Captain Fred, you're still my hero.
Over.

Bill Watson

October 9, 2011

Rarely a day goes by that I, when thinking about who to forward an interesting email piece to, that I don't think of Fred, and remember how kind he was to include me on his email list as one who would appreciate the kinds of things in life that kept him so upbeat and alert. Be with God, Fred, and hope to join you one day

Susie Dent

December 2, 2010

I just today learned of Fred's passing. He was part of the Worldwide Dent Family website. Several years ago, he spearheaded a group who planned a Worldwide Dent family reunion to be held in Maryland. I had regular contact with Fred during that time. Unfortunately, the reunion had to be cancelled. We never met but did talk on the phone. Fred had some wonderful ideas to share with the group. Also, my husband Don Dent was a bank examiner for the FDIC and was acquainted with Fred but didn't know then of their genealogical connection.
I send my heartfelt condolences to Elizabeth and the rest of the family.

September 24, 2010

Dear Elizabeth, We are saddened to hear about Fred. He was a faithful attendee at our SME luncheons each month. We will miss him very much. Please know that our hearts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Sincere regards, Nancy Carter and everyone at Sales and Marketing Executives.

Barbara Smith

September 22, 2010

Elizabeth,
I was sorry to hear about Fred, he was someone who believed in serving others. I was one of the original group that volunteered to help with Taxbusters. Many years have past, hope you remember me. God be with you.

ROBERT MOREAU

September 20, 2010

I knew Fred for a long time...when we were both 2nd LTs in the LA NG Special Forces unit during the early-mid 1960s. In recent years we often talked at the meetings of our SF Chapter 30 especially these past six yeara when he was VP and then President. His observations and comments were always intesting and insightful..conversations with Fred were always a joy. I will really miss him.

Charles Elliott

September 17, 2010

A chance reading of the editorial page revealed the sad news I somehow missed. Elizabeth and family, you have my most heartfelt sorrow for your loss. I liked and respected Fred so much. He was so smart, so clever, so nice a man. I always enjoyed every conversation we had: he taught me so much in our exchanges over history, politics, literature, state and world events. Such a pleasure to know him. Most saddened by your loss...and ours. He was a true gentleman. Bigger than life and a stand-up guy. He will be missed. Condolences.

Mona Laird-Rafeedie

September 16, 2010

The community of Baton Rouge and members of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber have lost a great mentor and friend. We will miss you, Mr. Fred, and your words of wisdom you shared with us - along with your humorous one liners that no one could deliver like you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in the passing of this true Southern gentleman.
Regards,
Mona Laird Rafeedie
Ambassador, BRAC

LaVerne Higdon

September 15, 2010

Dear Elizabeth and family,

I am so sorry I cannot be there in person to give you a hug and say good-bye to Fred. He was such a dear man. I enjoyed being his secretary and working for him so much. We worked well together and had fun everyday. I can see him sitting on the porch overlooking that beautiful garden drinking his coffee. He was so wise and intelligent and always had a funny story to tell. He had a great sense of humor, was pleasant to everyone, and knew everybody. Fred was one of those people that you thought would live forever. He gave of himself to everyone who knew him and wanted to help all those whose lives he touched. I have thought about y’all often since I left Baton Rouge. I know you will miss him so much my dear friend. I will be praying for you and the children.

Robert Ammons

September 15, 2010

Dear Friends and family of Fred Dent

I never did get the opportunity to spend some time with Fred this year as I planned, but there are a few things I wanted to tell him. I hope somehow he gets this message, but I certainly want Fred’s family and friends to know how he touched so many lives with freely given enthusiasm, energy, and advice. However, I was personally most impressed by his dedication, drive, and ability to get things done.
I knew Fred personally for almost five years as a brother in Major Folse’s SF unit in Baton Rouge. I was impressed and amazed in his accomplishments in logistical preparations for and during the Lake City summer camp. He followed the true spirit of the Special Forces and thought “out of the box”. His accomplishments greatly enhanced the success of our unit’s training.
I don’t think that Fred knew that Rep. Cliff Ammons was my dad when he and my dad first met in 1960. But I do know that when Fred and he first met, an immediate bond was made. It was on that day that my Dad and his dream of creating Toledo Bend began receiving several years of his invaluable assistance. Though almost totally unnoticed by anyone, on more than one occasion Fred gave critical advice and/or provided an essential service that kept the Toledo Bend Project alive. I am thankful for him doing so much to keep the Project alive. The whole Toledo Bend Area, (and all of Louisiana as well) have had their lives touched and enriched by Fred’s work in making Toledo Bend a reality.
Thank you Fred. I and a multitude of friends and family will miss you.

Robert (Bobby) Ammons

Alfred C. Williams

September 15, 2010

Fred was one of a kind. A man who shared his thoughts and beliefs with others. A good man. A strong Man. We will miss him.

George Kennedy

September 15, 2010

He was the best of us.

bob mcfarland

September 15, 2010

mr. fred. a great leader, father, businessman, soldier and statesman and friend. we need more like him. i am proud to have known him. bob mcfarland

Louis Cancienne

September 15, 2010

Elizabeth and the family: I have lost one of my best friends.I will always remember that when I visited Fred in his Office, He was never in a hurry to get rid of me regardless of how busy he was. It was a pleasure to work with him in 1995 on the first organized effort to restart The Cadets of The Ole War Skule. He did it all to insure success. Good bye Fred.....Rest in Peace. Louis Cancienne

Dan Lastrapes

September 15, 2010

To the Dent family, my warmest regards and deepest condolences. Every time I saw Mr. Dent, it brought a smile to my face and everytime I walked away from him I was a better person for having taken two minutes to soak up his wisdom and spirit. He will be missed and remembered.

Caroline Wallace

September 15, 2010

Mrs. Dent, My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. Mr. D will be greatly missed. Just remember that the Holy Spirit is our comfortor and will take care of you in your time of need. God bless you and your family.

Ben Crawford

September 15, 2010

I only met Fred Dent once but he left a lasting impression on me. My prayers and thoughts go out to his family during this time of grief and loss.

Andrea Vidrine

September 15, 2010

Mr. Dent took a special interest in students of entrepreneurship. He enthusiastically served as a guest lecturer several times in an entrepreneurship class I taught at Baton Rouge Community College. He also served on our business program advisory board and was always willing to share his business and other life experiences with students at Baton Rouge Community College. He will be missed.

Cindy Denham

September 15, 2010

To the man who for 73 years made the city of Baton Rouge and it's residents a better place to live,work and raise a family.
It was a pleasure working with you on your campaigns and helping accomplish the needs and care we both had for this city. Baton Rouge has lost a true asset and you will always be remembered.

Fr. Howard Hall

September 14, 2010

Dear Friends, I just returned from out of state to read the obituary. I recall Fred from school days downtown and the Lucille Mae Grace home in Spanish Town. In recent months I spoke to him as we regularly shared breakfast at Christina's. I will remember him in prayers and at my Sunday Mass.

September 14, 2010

Fred III
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. So many people said that we looked so much alike. I will miss seeing him at Frank's Restaurant!
I would be there, but I am on vacation in Tennessee.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Winston D'Armond

Timothy Castille

September 14, 2010

Go rest my brother. We'll stand watch for you now. De Oppresso Liber.

Ruth Price O'Connor

September 14, 2010

I have to say that I liked Fred the first time I met him when Elizabeth brought him to the family reunion in Mississippi. He had the ability to seem genuinely interested in whatever it is you had to say. I always looked forward to seeing him and was disappointed when you guys weren't there. He will live on in the hearts of those who love him.

Joseph Shorter

September 14, 2010

Fred Dent was a Mans Man. He never had a harsh word for anyone and was a joy to encounter on any occasion. He helped so many people in the financial services industries and will be missed. Please find solace in the fact that Mr. Dent was so well thought of by so many people. The Lord has embraced him in heaven.

Randy Haddad

September 14, 2010

Dear Elizabeth and Family,

I was privleged to call Fred my friend. He was a very special man and as good as they come. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Randy & Jo Haddad

Chuck Lalonde

September 14, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.

Winona Connor

September 14, 2010

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Rich Odom

September 14, 2010

I was very sorry to hear about Fred's passing. He wrote an insurance policy for me when I was a young Marine in 1972. When I moved back home, I saw him at the Manship YMCA almost every day, before I relocated to north La. He always had a smile and a good word to say about "The Good Lord." Fred was an extremely bright man, a gentleman, and a true Christian. He will be sorely missed.

Dan Henderson

September 14, 2010

So sorry to hear. I've had many enjoyable and instructive times together with Fred. He truly has, and does live in my good memories.

Bill Watson

September 14, 2010

My sincerest sympathy for the loss of my favorite email partner, a true patriot, a great American, and a noble advocate of all things good.

September 14, 2010

Our memories of Fred are truly special ones! He always radiated a love of life and family and great professionalism. He was so comfortable sharing family history and special memories! Our state has lost a valued individual who spoke up for what he believed in and was dedicated wholeheartedly to! May it comfort you to know that we care and share your loss. Margo and Courtney McKay Murphy

Darlyn Percle

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth and all of the Dent Family
My heart goes out to all of you in this time of sorrow. Know that God is welcoming Fred into his loving arms. Your memories will sustain you in the coming days.

Mike Stewart

September 14, 2010

Dear Elizabeth,
I am stunned and so upset to hear of Fred's passing. I just returned from a training engagement in New York and found an email from Harry Moran giving me this sad news. I am happy that your family was all together and with Fred when he passed on, according to the Morning Advocate.
I am still in shock. Fred was truly one of a kind and was my first true mentor, as anyone who knows me or has read my book knows. I can honestly say that I can't imagine that I would have achieved and enjoyed my successes, had it not been for Fred.
Please know that I treasured him and am praying for peace and comfort for you and your family.
Blessings, always,
Mike

Bill and Geneva Waters

September 14, 2010

Fred, a true friend and long time Comrade in Arms. May he rest in peace. My condolences to Elizabeth, Fred III, Charlie and Catherine.

Susan Louviere Hubbard

September 14, 2010

I remember when I was scheduled to take my insurance class before taking my licensing test to become an insurance agent back in the early 80's. I thought, oh well, another boring class like I had experienced in the past. It was not boring, at all. Mr. Dent, was at the top of his game, knew his stuff, and was so interesting. The entire class could not wait for classes to start. He made it so interesting, bringing in actual cases(without names) in relation to what we were studying. My thoughts the whole time was, I sure wish he had taught me when I was in college. He loved what he was doing and everyone could tell. He was always so positive, upbeat and supportive and I carry that memory with me today. So sorry for his family's loss, but also so sorry for Baton Rouge and Louisiana's loss as well. To the family, I am so sorry for your loss and you and your loved ones will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Henry Cook

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth,
Nancy and I regret that we are unable to attend. We are at the Special Operations Association Reunion in Vegas for the week.
Fred was blessed in many ways, one was in having you at his side. Our prayers will continue for his soul and for you.
Henry and Nancy Cook

Mrs. Thomas

September 14, 2010

May you be encouraged with all of the beautiful memories of your journey with Mr. Dent. Truly your family is a very special one. May God forever bless you all. The family of Rivers Livous, Sr.

Carson & Martha

September 14, 2010

Liz... We'll never forget Fred's ability to read people. He treated all with respect regardless if they agreed or not. He taught us a lot and he will be missed. Our prayers are with you.

GINA SENTILLES

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth,

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Fred. I remember many good times at my Uncle Bob's. You and the kids are in my prayers.

Gina Sentilles

September 14, 2010

Liz and family, Just know that our prayers are with you at the this time.
Lucian & Wilma Mascarella ( Mebane, N.C.

Joe McKee

September 14, 2010

Prayers for you Liz and your family.
VN vet.

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth, I remember you and Fred from the seminars and training sessions that ya'll conducted at the Clerk of Court's Office years ago. I will never forget Fred. He was one of a kind. He always took time out of his busy life to help others in need. I will be praying for you and your family in this time of need. May the Holy Spirit give you the peace that surpasses all understanding... Janice Davis Raiford

Alison Edmonston Rolke

September 14, 2010

Charlie,

My condolences to you and your family.

Dan Jumonville

September 14, 2010

From our days as Director/Associate Director of the LSU Institute Of Insurance Marketing, Fred has been a dear friend, and trusted source of creative ideas for the insurance industry, politics, and any other challenge at hand. He will be remembered as a man who respected others opinions, but was tenacious in his beliefs. Rest In Peace, My Friend.

September 14, 2010

May God's light guide your soul to eternal peace.
Sgt Ben Seal, 20th SF
Sunshine, LA

September 14, 2010

Diane and I wish to extend our deepest comdolences on the passing of my fellow soldier. May he rest in peace.

Don & Diane Bringol

September 14, 2010

Liz and family: I am sorry to hear about Fred passing. My prayers are with you and all of the family.

Louise Boudreaux , Baton Rouge, LA

Jerry Leggio

September 14, 2010

Liz, there are never the right words with such a loss. Fred was 2 years behind me at BRHS. We've been friends eversince. Please know that Gloria and I have you and the Dent family in our prayers.

Julie (Grace) Hutchingson

September 14, 2010

Aunt LIz.
I most remeber all of the family Thanksgivings. Uncle Fred smiled with his whole face and his eyes lit up like stars when he smiled. His laugh was contagious. I will pray for comfort for you and the family and all who loved him and will miss him. All of my Love.

Joan Wallyn

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth - The Baton Rouge area has lost an icon of citizen advocacy. Mr. Fred is remembered by many standing up for taxpayers and submitting suggestions to the Metro Council, Mayor's Office, etc. regarding fiscal responsibility. His degree of strength of character and courage are rare. He will be sorely missed, but will still be watching over you and the people he cared for. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

September 14, 2010

Our hearts go out to you and the family at this time. Fred will be missed very much.

Charles and Carol Stokes

Errollyn Jackson

September 14, 2010

May the love that you and Fred sowed into others return to you hundredfold as we celebrate the life of someone who meant so much to so many! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers!

Errollyn Jackson

Conni Caire

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth,
My heart is heavy and I am deeply saddened by Fred's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He was such a kind man.

Georgia Brown Scobee

September 14, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I remember my Dad (George Brown) sharing many great stories about Mr. Fred. He was a good man and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Al Scallan

September 14, 2010

I had the pleasure of Fred's aquaintance, for most of my adult life. This started at Goudchaux's on Main Street one day when He gave me an impromptu "pep talk" He told me that it was easy to look at the problems of life, but better to look at the positive side. He was a mentor for me in my early days in the insurance business. In later years I ran into to him at Christina's numerous times and it was always great to see him. He took a personal interest in everyone. You never left a meeting with Fred without smiling. I'll never forget that when Fred ran for governor, that every single other candidate said that if they could not vote for themselves, they would vote for Fred Dent. He was a great man, and I am a better person having known him.

Evans Roberts

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth and family, I am so very sorry to learn of Fred's passing. He and I had such good time at ODK Alumni meetings. He will be greatly missed by all.

Betsy Otken Barnes

September 14, 2010

For all the countless kindnesses Fred showed to my family from the day my parents moved to Baton Rouge in 1960 and the brilliant, unique and committed ways he led causes he believed in, I gratefully thank God for my cousin Fred and his positive impact on so many lives. Fred was truly one of a kind. Our prayers for peace and comfort to Elizabeth, Fred III, Catherine, Charlie, Judi, his grandchildren and all who will always love and miss him.

September 14, 2010

Charlie and Fred,
Your Dad was a great man and Baton Rouge was so very fortunate to have him. You will live with wonderful memories of him. The honor was mine to know your Dad, and both of you.

Maureen Sellers, Ponchatoula La.

Wayne Trieschmann

September 14, 2010

My memories of Fred Dent began in the mid 1950s when Fred was the cadet commander of the LSU cadet corps. Fred had attended a military school and was a polished soldier among thousands of very green and undisciplined cadets when ROTC was mandatory for all freshmen and sophomore males and was a huge influence on campus. It seems natural that Fred would go on to join the highly selective and demanding Special Forces. Fred was a true patriot and the best that our generation can offer. Wayne Trieschmann, LSU 58, Berrien Springs, Michigan

Susan East Nelson

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth, I remember when I first met you and Fred when we were running a campaign out of your office space in 1994. I remember you both taking us off on our leadership retreat, identifying our personalities and how we work together. Fred was always larger than life, but never too big to share his knowledge and his experience with anyone who could benefit from it. He will surely be missed and I know light perpetual will shine upon him.

Joe & Ann Wills

September 14, 2010

Baton Rouge has lost a Great man & a Great leader. We are honored to have had the opportunity to know you.

Harry & Joyce Conrad

September 14, 2010

Dear Elizabeth and Family,
Fred was a good man and will be missed by all that knew him and worked with him. I regret that Joyce and I will not be able to attend the sevices as we have a family event in Houston on Wednesday evening. We extend our deepest sympathy to you and the family.
Harry Conrad
Maj. Gen., U.S. Army, Retired
Past Pres.,Cadets of the Ole War School

Aaron Martinez

September 14, 2010

Mr. Fred was an amazing man. Although I didn't know him well, he was a real inspiration to me. Baton Rouge lost a true patriot. I feel honored to have met him.

Kelly Nix

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth and all the Dent Family, I am so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. Fred was a special type of man and loved by all that met him. He has made many memorial marks on this world and left it a better place than he found it. My thoughs and prayers will be with all of you. May God bless your home and family.

September 14, 2010

We remeber the good days on LSU Ave when
our kids visited and played together. It
is sad to hear that you left us. RIP friend.

Carl and Margaret McKenzie Tirpitz

September 14, 2010

Elizabeth and Family, I am so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you. Your classmate, Sadie Nevels Ford

Andrea Miranda

September 14, 2010

Charlie and family,

I am so sorry to hear of your father's passing. He was larger than life. HIs passion for life and compassion for people made him extraordinary. May he rest in eternal peace.

Andrea Miranda

Colonel Henry Johnson (ret)

September 14, 2010

Deepest sympathies to Mrs Elizabeth, the family and friends. Captain Fred Dent has been an inspiration to all, and he will always be my hero.
Over.

Lamar Jones

September 14, 2010

I always liked Fred even though we differed in outlook at times. He was always friendly and jolly. A good person and a worthwhile one too.
We'll miss him.

Me and my dad!

Charlie Dent

September 14, 2010

Showing 1 - 76 of 76 results

Make a Donation
in Fred Dent's name

Memorial Events
for Fred Dent

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Fred's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Fred Dent's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more