Dayton "Kent" Tipsword

Dayton "Kent" Tipsword, 89, of Moline, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Allure of Moline on November 20, 2024. He was born July 22, 1935, in Sorento, IL, to Leslie and Vera (May) Tipsword.

Kent graduated from United Township High School in 1953 and began a distinguished career in finance, serving as Credit Department Manager at Rock Island Bank and Trust for 20 years. He held leadership roles, including Executive Vice President of Hillsdale Bank, and later retired from Johnson Mortgage Company in Cincinnati, OH, in 2007. Kent also lent his expertise to consumer relations for the Cincinnati Reds, merging his love of sports with his professional life.

On June 30, 1956, Kent married the love of his life, Sara Tomlinson, in Moline, IL. Their enduring union of 68 years was a testament to their devotion and partnership. Together, they raised a family that was the center of Kent's world. He cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his love of baseball and sports brought countless memories to life.

Kent's dedication to his community was unwavering. He was a past president of the Rock Island Jaycees, treasurer for the Rock Island Rescue Mission, and served on the Indian Pow Wow Council for many years. He was also a long-time member of the Moline Gospel Temple, where he held the position of Financial Secretary and served on the church council for several terms. His impact on these organizations and his community was profound, leaving a legacy of service, leadership, and kindness.

Kent is survived by his wife, Sara; his children, Mark (Cherie) Tipsword of Plano, TX, Angela Evans of The Colony, TX, Stephen (Kimberly) Tipsword of Moline, IL, and Candice Hatter of Frisco, TX; his sister, Brenda (Ed) Miller of Rockford, IL; his brother, Terry Tipsword of Silvis, IL; seven grandchildren, Bradley, Chad, Melissa, Merry, Kaitlyn, Nathan, Rachel; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved son, Neal, and a brother, Dennis.

A funeral service to honor Kent's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 25, at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline, with burial to follow at Rock Island Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will occur from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 24, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association in Kent's memory.

Kent's unwavering love for his family, steadfast dedication to his career, and service to his community will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences by visiting wendtfuneralhome.com.