NASHVILLE, TN – Tennessee Republican Party Chairman Chris Devaney issued the following statement on the passing of former State Representative Joe Kent who represented parts of Shelby County from 1978 until 2004:

“I was saddened to hear about Rep. Kent’s passing,” said Devaney. “Rep. Joe Kent was clearly a dedicated public servant, spending 24 years as a Memphis police officer and 26 years as a state representative. His experience in law enforcement proved invaluable during his time at the state legislature where he worked diligently to promote a number of anti-crime and law enforcement policies. Rep. Kent was well-respected by colleagues on both sides of the aisle and he will be sorely missed. At this difficult time, I extend my deepest sympathies and prayers to his wife Becky, their two sons, and their granddaughter.”