Ronald Morris Jent

Ronald Morris Jent, a cherished resident of Franklin, Kentucky, went to be with his Lord on Sunday, December 21st, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on Tuesday, July 18th, 1939, in Kentucky, Ronald spent a life deeply rooted in faith, family, and community service.

A graduate of Franklin-Simpson High School, class of 1958, Ronald dedicated over three decades to the banking industry, contributing significantly to Simpson County Bank and Franklin Bank and Trust. His leadership roles were numerous, serving as Past President of the South Central Kentucky chapter of the Bank Administration Institution, a member of the board of directors of the Kentucky Bankers Association, and chairing various committees. His influence extended to the education sector, where he taught at the Kentucky Bankers Association School of Banker.

Ronald's passion for community involvement was evident through his active participation in various organizations. He was a longtime member and deacon at Calvary Baptist Church, holding many leadership roles, including vice-chairman of the building committee. He was also a Little League Baseball and Basketball coach, fostering youth development in his community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ronald was instrumental in organizing the first Antique Car Show in downtown Franklin, alongside James Emerson, and was a past president of the Southern Kentucky Antique Automobile Club. His organizational expertise further led to the founding of the Morgantown Catfish Festival, where he served as the inaugural chairman.

A leader in civic service, Ronald was a past president of the Franklin Optimist Club, served as Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky, and was an organizer of the Morgantown-Butler Chamber of Commerce, serving as its first president. Additionally, he contributed significantly as a board member of the Simpson County Soil Conservation and the State of Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. He was highly involved with the TVA Townlift and participated in guiding Dale Carnegie Classes.

Ronald's life was enriched by his family, who survive him: his beloved wife of 67 years, Millie Madison Jent; his two sons, Eddie Jent (Patricia) and Robert Jent (Amy), both of Franklin, KY; his two grandchildren, Hunter Scott Jent (Ashley) and Spencer Morris Jent, Special Ops Navy Guam; and his two great-grandchildren, Elijah and Hallie. He is also survived by dear nieces and nephews, Kenny Holman, Lou Ann Raby, Kelly Holman, Jim David Madison, Melissa Moore, and Jamie Williams. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mildred (Ackerman) Jent, and his daughter, Rhonda Jent Pedigo.

Pallbearers honoring Ronald’s memory will include Doug Marklin, Tracy Keith, Rick Emerson, Hunter Jent, Kenny Holman, and Kelly Holman. Honorary pallbearers are Rick Pike, Brent Grow, Russell Forshee, Wendell Turney, Billy Pedigo, Jerry Hammond and Lloyd Chandler.

A visitation will be held at Calvary Baptist Church in Franklin, KY, on Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in Ronald's memory to Hospice of Southern Kentucky, 5872 Scottsville Rd., Bowling Green, KY 42104, or to the Parkinson's Foundation, 5757 Waterford District Drive, Suite 310, Miami, FL 33126.  Envelopes will be provided at the church.

For more information, please visit www.gilbertfhonline.com or the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. Facebook page. To reach them directly by phone, please call 270-586-8844.

Ronald Morris Jent will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his community and his loving devotion to his family. His legacy of service, leadership, and kindness will be dearly missed by all who knew him.