Ralph L. Kent, Jr., age 83, passed away peacefully at home on January 4, 2026, with his devoted wife of 58 years, Kathleen F. Kent (O’Brien), by his side. Born on September 6, 1942, Ralph was raised in Milton, Massachusetts, and later made his home in Dedham where he served in Town Meeting.
Ralph attended Boston College High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame. He later received his Doctor of Science in Biostatistics from the Harvard University School of Public Health. Ralph dedicated his professional life to science, serving for many years as Director of Biostatistics at the Forsyth Institute, and he was honored with an appointment as Associate Professor at Harvard School of Dental Medicine.
Above all else, Ralph was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Kathy, and by his devoted children and children-in-law: Sarah Kent and her husband Gregory Blaha of Jamaica Plain; Patrick Kent and his wife Erin of Sudbury; and Elizabeth Cullen and her husband Christopher of Wayland. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to his four granddaughters, Nora Kent and Fiona, Isabel, and Bridget Cullen. He is also survived by his loving sister, Ali Debarba, her husband Eric of Connecticut, and their family. Ralph was predeceased by his sisters Genevieve Brown of Cohasset and Patricia Hampton of New York.
Ralph found joy in the ocean, sailing, summer gatherings on the Cape and long walks outdoors. He cherished returning numerous times to visit South Bend, cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish throughout his life, and found inspiration in music of all kinds. He especially treasured chamber concerts and evenings at the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops, experiences made most meaningful when shared with Kathy and their children.
Ralph distinguished himself in his kindness, keen intellect, and abiding love for his family and friends from throughout his life.
Visiting hours Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 4-7pm the George F. Doherty and Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High Street, Dedham. Funeral from the funeral home Friday, January 9th at 12 pm, followed by interment at Milton Cemetery. Reception to follow. Contributions in Ralph’s memory would be gratefully appreciated to Rosie's Place or the American Society for Deaf Children.