William Kent Cleveland

Kent went to sleep peacefully and woke up in the arms of Jesus, Saturday, July 29, 2023. He told us he was ready for a cup of coffee with his Daddy and a bear hug from his son.

Kent was known world-wide as “Pitbull” or “Jesse James” in the CB world. He was a CB Champion many times over. He developed a love for CB’s and fast Cars from his father at early age. He enjoyed both hobbies to the fullest. He worked at Hollingsworth Mazda for many years until he retired early due to diabetes.

Kent knew how to tell a good story and make you laugh until you cried. Everyone that knew him, knew he had a heart made of gold and a fist made of iron. Everyone wanted a piece of his heart, but stayed clear of his left-hook.

Kent’s loss is immeasurable, but so is the love he left behind. If you were blessed enough to know him as a friend, then you were family to him. His family was far and wide. He set an example for the world to follow. If he called you family, then it didn’t matter your blood, race or gender, his love was unconditional.

Left mourning his passing are; his pride and joy, his son, William Zachery “Zack” Cleveland; his mother, Sarah “Vonnie” Peterson Sylvest; three sisters and two brother-in-laws, Renee’ (Henry) Allen, Sunny Cleveland and Jenny Lynn (Randy) Saucier. He leaves behind 5 nephews, Kody (Vicki) LaBarthe, Jacob VanVeckhoven, Aaron LaBarthe, Michael Kade (Philip) Rinaudo, and Dylan Sanders; three great-nieces: Natalie, Chloe and Lily LaBarthe; his love of many years, Bridget Santangelo; step-daughter, Brooke Santangelo and his precious grand-daughter, Alexis Brown. He is also survived by his special brother and sister, Misty (Cleveland) Erickson and Allen Cleveland, whom he loved very much and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Waiting beside Jesus at heaven’s gate was his father, William “Bill” Cleveland and son, Brandon “Cleveland” Santangelo; his paternal grandparents, Henry and Mary “Mammie” Cleveland and his maternal grandparents, Jewell Peterson and Virginia “Missy” Peterson Canik and too many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends to list but we find comfort in knowing he is surrounded by, Jesus and so many that love him.

We will celebrate Kent’s life, Saturday August 5, 2023. At Central Funeral Home 9995 Hooper Rd Central, LA 70818. Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until services begin at 12:00 pm. Eulogy will be given by his nephew, Pastor Kody LaBarthe. Pallbearers will be his cousins. James Ray Peterson, Pete Peterson, Duane Vaughan, Tom Peterson, Ryan Peterson, Glen Peterson, Henry Blount and Dustin Cleveland. Central Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.