Charles Kent Dunford was born on November 12, 1933 to Lela Violet Christensen and Isaac Dunford. He served an LDS mission in the North Western States Mission. After his mission, he completed a degree in History from BYU that heralded a lifetime love of learning and teaching. Kent received his Masters in History from the University of Colorado. His educational pursuits culminated in a Doctorate in Philosophy and History of Religion from BYU. Before finishing his undergraduate education at BYU, Kent married Carolyn Dunford, on June 6, 1958 in the Salt Lake Temple. For 37 years, his vocation was as a teacher of the gospel for the Church Education System. He taught in Copperton, Provo, Salt Lake City, Boulder (Colorado), San Diego, Chicago, Boston, Hawaii, Nauvoo, Buena Vista, Los Angeles, and Jerusalem (on five separate occasions). These were in addition to his career at The University of Utah Institute (21 years). He was a master teacher of the gospel, whose teaching and writing put an emphasis on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as depicted in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon. In 1993, Kent completed his magnum opus: a book entitled “A Testament for Our Times.” A significant contribution to Book of Mormon studies, the book provides insightful structure, enhanced understanding, and personalized meaning to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Kent’s life was largely defined by his personal commitment to humanitarian and Church service. His leadership and teaching positions in the Church included service in a Stake Presidency, in a Mission Presidency, and as a Bishop. He and Carolyn served five couple missions in Hawaii, Nauvoo, Buena Vista (Virginia), Los Angeles, and Belize. They also served together for nine years in the Salt Lake Temple. Kent was a noble and humble servant to mankind in the service of his God. His tireless quest for learning, truth, and knowledge permeated every aspect of his life. He was a loving, supportive, and engaged husband and father. There is nothing Kent valued or cherished more than being with his family.
Kent passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday morning, January 11, 2024 at the age of 90. His legacy includes six children, 26 grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren.
Source: Obituary https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/millcreek-ut/charles-dunford