Kent Carnes

Kent Carnes, age 74, of Pittsfield, IL passed away on Friday October 11, 2024, at his home.  He was born on March 8, 1950, in Pittsfield, IL to Donald and Elizabeth ‘Betty’ (Walmsley) Carnes. Kent married Martha L. Winans on June 20, 1970, at the Baylis United Brethren Church, and she survives.

Kent graduated from Pittsfield High School in 1968 and went on to attend the University of Missouri-Rolla.  After a year of schooling, he came home and married the love of his life, whom he first met at  8th grade graduation, and they spent the next 54 years together.  Kent began his working career as a welder alongside his father-in-law for the railroad.  He also worked with his dad at Carnes and Sons Trailer World, and later drove for Sharkey Transportation.  Kent then worked at the front desk for Pike County Lumber for over 12 years until he retired.  After retirement he found his dream job, helping his son-in-law on the farm.

In his early years Kent was an avid water skier, enjoyed reading and loved to sing.  He was a member of the Pike County Theatre Guild for over 20 years.  He loved the theatre and was a part of numerous plays including Music Man, Cabaret, Shenandoah, South Pacific, Evita, ‘1776’, and The Foreigner to name a few.  If he wasn’t part of the cast, you could find him running the lights, painting the scenery or building props.  But his true love was for his family. He was a good husband and excellent caregiver for Marty when she was ill, and he wholeheartedly supported his daughters throughout their lives.  Then came the grandchildren that were the icing on his cake.  Kent was a compassionate, friendly man who always had a smile on his face, and he will be missed by all who knew him.

Kent is survived by his loving wife Marty; two daughters, Amy (Ron) Hoskin of El Dara, IL and Leecia Carnes of Pittsfield, IL; six grandchildren Reagan, Roam, Ronan, Renick, Rigston, and Rispen Hoskin; two brothers, Gregg (Sandi) Carnes and Kevin Carnes; sister-in law Ann (Gene) Stauffer and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Services will be held on Friday October 18, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield, IL, interment will follow at the Baylis Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Thursday October 17, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Niebur Funeral Home.  Memorials are suggested to be made to the Baylis Cemetery or Samaritan’s Purse / Operation Christmas Child.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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