Kent Allen Taylor

Kent Allen Taylor, 73, of Bakersfield, California, passed peacefully on January 2, 2026, surrounded by those who loved him.
Kent was born on August 5, 1952, in Glendale, California, to Margaret Ellen Baker of West Virginia and Kenneth Kay Taylor of Bucklin, Kansas. He attended Eugene Elementary School, Toll Junior High School, and Hoover High School, graduating in 1970.
Shortly after graduation, Kent proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for two years as a motor transportation operator at Fort Rucker, Alabama. Following his service, he built a life grounded in hard work, dedication, and love for his family.
In 1980, Kent moved to Bakersfield, where he met and married the love of his life, Patricia Taylor. They shared 43 years of marriage filled with devotion, companionship, and countless memories. Kent worked as a machinist for over 50 years, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and pride in a job well done.
Kent truly never met a stranger. He was a talker, a storyteller, and someone who made friends everywhere he went. His familiar phrases-"Do-What?" and "Are we having fun yet?"-will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, bringing smiles and memories of his humor and warmth.
Kent enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially at Ward Lake and Pine Flat Lake, where he found peace and relaxation. One of his most treasured recent memories was a deep-sea fishing trip last summer with two of his sons, a time filled with laughter, pride, and connection.
Kent is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Taylor; his sons, Matthew (Mary Jane), Andrew (Suzanne), Michael (Isabel), and Patrick; and five grandsons, whom he loved and adored deeply.
A graveside ceremony will be held on January 30th at 12:30 p.m. at Bakersfield National Cemetery.
Kent will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man whose life was defined by service, hard work, laughter, and love.