Charles Kent Heath of Freeport, Ill., died Nov. 15, 2025, at Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford, Ill. Kent, 73, was born Feb. 29, 1952, in Decatur, Ill., the oldest son of Charles "Gus" Heath and Kathryn Osborn Heath. He had a younger brother, Brent Heath. Kent graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in art. He then moved to Chicago where he worked at a law firm for about 10 years and later worked as a scenic artist for a Chicago production company and a TV station. While living in Chicago, Kent spent several years creating ceramic sculptures at Lill Street Studio in the Pilsen arts community.

In 1976 Kent married Jez Husar, a fellow artist and EIU graduate. They divorced after about eight years but later reunited as loving partners and best friends. Kent and Jez spent more than 25 years at various home locations in northwest Illinois. After about five years in rural Dixon and 10 years in Mt. Carroll, they moved to Freeport in 2014.

Because both of his parents were dedicated schoolteachers, Kent early in life developed a love for learning. He maintained that affection throughout his adult years. Kent was an avid reader with an intense interest in art, history, the oceans and the universe. He also cultivated his passion for art by collecting an array of art books, artworks and other creative materials that captured his interest.

Kent is survived by Jez and an array of friends and relatives in the Chicago area and across Illinois.

No services are scheduled at this time.