Kent Dickinson

David Kent Dickinson was born September 16th, 1947 in Jacksonville, Florida to Warren Dickinson and Betty Jones Dickinson. Growing up in a military family, Kent attended Forrest High School, Lake City Community College, and FSJC.

Kent joined the US Army, serving in the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1970. In the 101st Airborne Division, Kent faced combat bravely. He saved many soldiers in his unit and became wounded in battle. He received two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars, the Silver Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal of Valor, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Distinguished Service Cross Medal.

Kent joined the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in 1972. During his law enforcement career, he became a Sergeant, served in the Detective Division, and spent over 10 years on the SWAT Team. Kent was loved and respected by fellow law enforcement and, after 30 years with JSO, retired in 2002.

Kent was heavily involved in lifelong fitness regimens and trained many young officers in this arena. He played on the Magnum Force football Team and competed at the Police Olympics in track & field. He won a Gold Medal for the 440 races. Needless to say, not many criminals could outrun him.

He coached the Guns N’ Hoses boxers for many years, up until his untimely passing. As a mentor to hundreds of men and women, his influence endures in many young athletes and officers. In in recognition of his commitment and contributions, he was inducted into the Guns N’ Hoses Hall of Fame.

A quiet man of faith and great character, he loved fly fishing and reading historical books. He was well loved by family and friends.

Kent became suddenly ill Monday, March 2nd, 2026. He passed away while resting peacefully Wednesday, March 4th, 2026. Kent’s parents predeceased him. He is survived by his sisters Joyce (Jim) Cunningham, Robyn (Tony) Hanson, several nieces and nephews, and several great nieces and great nephews.

The mold was broken when God made Kent Dickinson. He was a humble, ethical human being, and one of the strongest men we had the honor to know. Kent lived a great life and was a wonderful friend to many. Rest In Peace Kent Dickinson, a true hero who will be greatly missed

Visitation will be held at the Riverside Event Pavilion, 1373 Memorial Park Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32205, US, on March 18, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A Funeral Service will be held at the Riverside Event Pavilion, 1373 Memorial Park Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32205, US, on March 18, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

A committal service with JSO and Army Honors will be held at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32218, on March 18, 2026, at 2:00 PM.