Charles Kent Kennard

Charles Kent Kennard, age 88, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026 after a brief illness. He is survived by three siblings; Robert (Becky), Mark (Chrissy), and Mary Wolfenbarger, and sister-in-law Sue Kennard; his sons Randy and Kevin (Leigh Ann); and five grandchildren, Trevor, Samuel (Jordan), Grace Anne Viña (Henry), Rachael Conner (Preston) and Abigail, in addition to numerous nieces and nephews. He also welcomed two great grandchildren in recent years, Eliza and William Kennard. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Menzel and Hazel White Kennard, his brother Zack Kennard, as well as former wife, Barbara Huxley Kennard.

Known as Charlie to his friends and Kent to family, he resided most of his life in the Fountain City and Inskip sections of Knoxville. He worked 27 years in retail advertising sales for the Knoxville News-Sentinel, retiring in 1996. He also retired, after 24 years of service, from the US Army Reserve, assigned primarily to the 3292nd US Army Reserve School in Knoxville.

An avid traveler and reader of history, he possessed a keen knowledge of many European destinations. He was most happy when he was on the move whether by car, plane, or train. Charlie was also a long-time collector of antiques and spent much of his time in retirement researching, buying and selling what he considered pieces of history. A lifelong practical joker, his antics will be remembered and shared by all who knew and loved him.

The family is especially grateful to those who showed him care, friendship, and kindness in his final years including neighbor Carol Pierce and physical therapist Diane Michels.

Memorial services will be held Friday, May 1, 2026 from 5-7pm with a 7:00 service.

Condolences can be made at www.mynattfh.com