J. Kent Capps

Kent was born on June 17, 1940, in Tower Hill, IL, the son of Joseph H. and Margaret (Miller) Capps. He married Karolyn Sue Baugher in September 1962, in Mattoon, IL.

He earned his bachelor’s degree from Illinois Wesleyan University, where he was a member of Sigma Chi, and his MBA from Sangamon State University. He went on to work for the Illinois Department of Public Health, from which he retired. Kent was a member of Christ Church of Longboat Key, Florida, and First United Methodist Church of Springfield. He enjoyed his time as an Eagle Scout and the Springfield Bonsai Society. He also enjoyed collecting and dealing antiques with Karolyn, gardening, and spending winters in Florida.

Kent was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Karolyn Capps of Springfield; sons, Stephen (Jasmine) Capps of Frisco, TX and David (Melanie) Capps of Chatham, IL.; grandchildren, Nicholas (Nadia), Kaitlin (Alex), Tyler, Hannah (Matt), Logan (Paulina), Michael, Evan, Mya, and Zakary; and one great-grandchild, Madeline.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home – Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, followed by the Ceremony at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Mike Keppler, Care Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow at Chatham Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: First United Methodist Church in Springfield.