Catharine "Cathy" Hazen Kent's Obituary
Catharine Eleanor Hazen Kent, 74, departed peacefully on July 7, 2025. A lifelong Memphian, Cathy was born on November 15, 1950, as the 5th of 6 children.
Cathy Hazen attended St. Michael School and Immaculate Conception High School. At IC, she was a member of Tes Trams sorority. Over the years, she enthusiastically participated in reunions and get-togethers with her IC Class of ‘68.
She graduated from Memphis State University (now University of Memphis) where she was President of Delta Zeta sorority. She enjoyed dorm life, often sporting MSU sweatshirts.
Cathy married Bill Kent on October 21, 1973. They soon moved to Central Gardens where they raised their two children and befriended many neighbors.
A beloved 6th grade math teacher, Cathy taught for 40 years at Collierville Middle School. She added to many children’s lives and was later integral to the retired teachers group.
In retirement, Cathy expressed her creativity and generosity to loved ones by making gifts on her Cricut machine. She was often spotted hopping a plane to visit her children and grandchildren, whom she adored.
Cathy is cherished by her loving husband of 51 years, William C. Kent, Jr. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Wendy E. Kent (Chi Kim) and granddaughters Charli and Maggie of Tucson; her son David W. Kent (Rachel) and grandchildren Eleanor, Evelyn, Miles, and Esther of Fairfield, CT; and her many nieces and nephews. She is survived by her dear siblings John C. Hazen (Pamela) of Nashville, Susan J. Hazen (William Robinson) of Nashville, and J. Kenneth Hazen (Rhonda) of Alpharetta, GA.
Cathy is preceded by her parents, Charles E. and Emily Novak Hazen of Memphis, sister Gloria Jean Broadaway (R. Kenneth) of Austin, and James E. Hazen of Memphis.
Cathy’s husband Bill provided loving and uplifting care during her long illness. Her avid Beatles fandom inspired the nickname Ringo from her physical therapist. The life of
Cathy Kent will be celebrated Saturday, August 9, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share favorite memories.
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