J. Kent Sheriff

J. Kent Sheriff 53, died on October 15, 2019, at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis Hospital in Wichita, Kansas, from complications following heart surgery. Born on January 9, 1966, in Hillsboro, Illinois, to parents John K. and Elsie M. (Bacon) Sheriff, Kent spent most of his life in North Newton and Newton, Kansas. He was a 1985 graduate of Newton High School and attended Bethel College from 1985-1990 majoring in Art, a creative interest he pursued throughout his life.  In 1990, Kent married Michelle (Cornelsen) Sheriff at Bethel College Mennonite Church and enjoyed the full embrace of her extended family. Employed by Bethel College for more than 20 years, Kent prized his roles and friendships within the Bethel community. Survivors include Kent’s spouse Michelle and their son Jarett; Kent’s parents John and Elsie; Kent’s sister Karen Sheriff LeVan, her spouse David LeVan, and their children Will and Brett LeVan; Michelle’s parents Ken and Connie Cornelsen; Michelle’s brother Rob Cornelsen and his partner Sarah Jane Jeffries; and beloved uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who enriched his life. Memorial service at Bethel College Mennonite Church, October 21, 2019, 2:00 p.m. with reception following. Memorials may be sent to the Bethel College Maintenance Department or Bethel College Graphic Arts Program.