Kent William Herbert

MAKANDA - Kent William Herbert, 79, of Makanda, Illinois, passed away November 4, 2026 with his family by his side.

Born October 2, 1947, in Moline, Illinois, he was a proud SIU Carbondale graduate, lifelong Saluki fan, and devoted family man who married Nancy on July 19, 1975, and celebrated 50 years together in 2025.

A jack-of-all-trades; journalist, electrician, carpenter, teacher, coach, and entrepreneur, Kent also enjoyed, sports, music, dancing, and singing who delighted in conversation, his many friendships, and especially his role as husband to Nancy, father to Adam and Andrew, and grandfather to Izzy, Ben, Elliott, and Mason. Even through later illness he remained positive, loving, and focused on others.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Adam (Amy) and Andrew (Amanda), his grandchildren Izzy, Ben, Elliott, and Mason, his brothers John, Jim, and Kevin, and many friends; he was preceded in death by his mother Mildred, father George, and brother Jeff.

A celebration of life will be held February 20th, 2027 at Blue Sky Vineyard. Kent will be remembered as a good, gentle, and compassionate man, full of kindness, humor, and love. In the spirit of how he lived his own life, those who knew him are invited to share their love for one another often, dance and sing together whenever the mood strikes, and always leave room for a good dessert.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Kent, visit www.meredithfh.com.