Obituary published on Legacy.com by Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home - Herrin from Sep. 5 to Sep. 11, 2025.
James Dean Jent Obituary James Dean Jent, age 85, of Carterville, passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at his home, surrounded by the love and memories of a lifetime. Dean was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He was born Tuesday, September 12, 1939 in Herrin, a son of James Matthew and Mary Maurine (Jones) Jent. He married the love of his life, Carol Sue Hatfield on July 30, 1961 at the Free Methodist Church in Herrin. Together, they have shared more than sixty-four years of marriage and precious memories.
Prior to Dean's retirement, his career at Norge/Maytag spanned more than 35 years. He was a quiet and easy-going man who loved to read, work on crossword puzzles, and cheer on his St. Louis Cardinals. He took great pride in his lawn and enjoyed spending time outdoors, grilling, and cooking with his wife. Sundays were always special, filled with family dinners, game nights with the grandchildren, and simply quality time with loved ones.
A devoted coach and father, James proudly coached his daughter's softball team through their time with Tri-C Athletics. He cherished time spent with family, whether at reunions or going out to eat with Jessica and Ken. Dean will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, kindness, and family will live on.
He is survived by his loving wife- Carol Sue (Hatfield) Jent of Carterville; daughter and son-in-law- Jamie and Ken Qualls of De Soto; two grandchildren- Brock (Shelley) Qualls of Columbia, Tennessee and Lindsey (Trevor) Poore of Carterville; three great granddaughters- Salem Rae Poore, Scottie Kate Poore, and Harper Renee Qualls; one sister- Marlyn Cairatti of Herrin; brother-in-law- Gene (Mary Ann) Hatfield of Herrin; sister-in-law- Jean Hatfield of Johnston City; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, sister- Donna Dunnigan, and several brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation to be held from 11:00 AM- 12:00 PM on Monday, September 8, 2025 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Ralph Brandon officiating.
Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery.
For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the SIH Cancer Institute.
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.johnsonhughes.com or call 618-942-3102 for more information.
Services
Visitation
Monday
September 8, 2025
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home
201 S 13th St.
Herrin, IL 62948
Funeral
Monday
September 8, 2025
12:00 PM
Johnson-Hughes Funeral
Home
201 S 13th St.
Herrin, IL 62948
Committal
Monday
September 8, 2025
1:00 PM
Herrin City Cemetery
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