Thomas Kent Beyette's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Thomas Kent Beyette
Thomas Kent Beyette, known affectionately as Kent, departed from this world on September 21, 2023, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, surrounded by his loving family.
Kent's journey through life was a remarkable one, characterized by dedication, intellectual pursuits, and a zest for diverse experiences. He began his voyage as a navigator in the U.S. Navy and later channeled his boundless curiosity into a profound love for literature. With the assistance of the GI Bill, he embarked on an academic path that culminated in a PhD in English from the University of Texas at Austin. Kent's passion for education led him to a fulfilling career as a professor at the University of Florida, where he eventually retired.
Beyond the halls of academia, Kent's interests were as vast as his intellect. In his earlier years, he found joy in the thrill of aviation, competition of tennis, the serenity of fishing, the rush of water skiing, and the camaraderie of touring with the Cross Creek Cloggers. As the years passed, he developed a deep appreciation for music and dance, engaging in flat foot dance and sharing his talents with groups like the Skirtlifters, Loose Change and Dublin Down.
Mornings for Kent were a time of quiet reflection, sipping coffee on his back patio, and tending to his flourishing garden, where he nurtured the most exquisite sunflowers and cherished herbs. Evenings were reserved for the harmonious strains of music, gathering with cherished friends and family, and indulging his passion for reading. An avid history buff, Kent possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of, and his conversations were punctuated with humor and a treasure trove of trivia.
Kent's legacy is carried on by the cherished memories he leaves behind. He joins his parents, Cecil and Eloise Beyette, brother Joe Fain Beyette, sisters Gale Beyette, and Cecile Covington, as well as his grandson, Jared Butler, in eternal rest. He is survived by his adoring daughter, Jane, and her husband, Joey Matthews, of Tallahassee, Florida; his son, Thomas, and his wife, Jessica Beyette, of Houston, Texas; and five beloved grandchildren: Brandon and Bryce Matthews, Hannah and her husband, Kyler Ferguson, and Kegan and Brayden Beyette. A great-grandson, Cohen Ferguson, completes this cherished family.
In accordance with Kent's wishes, there will be no formal funeral or memorial service. Instead, the family kindly requests that you consider donating to a cancer foundation or the Mountain View Band Boosters (C/O Blake Henley, 210 High School Dr, Mountain View, AR 72560) in his honor. Kent's legacy of intellectual curiosity, musical talent, and love for family and friends will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Cremation arrangements are by Nelson Berna Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?