George C. Kent, former University comparative anatomy professor, died Jan. 4 in his Pittsburgh home at age 97.
Kent taught and inspired thousands of students during his tenure at the University, said Paul Terranova, who began studying under Kent in 1971. He said he remembered Kent for his enthusiasm and dedication to research.
“His work ethic was unmatched,” Terranova said. “He was in his office early in the morning and late at night. He was there on Saturdays and Sundays.”
Terranova, who serves as senior associate dean for research and graduate education at the University of Kansas Medical Center, said he was influenced by Kent’s drive.
“I saw how he worked. … In order to be successful you cannot work from 9 to 5 and think about your projects only during working hours,” Terranova said. “But it was not really work. It was enjoying your research.”
Kent earned his undergraduate degree from Maryville College in 1937. He attended Vanderbilt University for his master’s and doctoral study and served as a research associate at Cornell University. He was also an instructor at Vanderbilt before joining LSU as a professor in 1942.
Kent remained at the University until retiring in 1979 as a professor emeritus, according to the College of Science Hall of Distinction.
After his retirement, Kent was bestowed with a professorship in the Department of Biological Sciences, said Kent’s daughter, Carolyn Rovee-Collier. The honor was made possible by donation from a former student of Kent’s, she said.
A week before his death, Kent was still receiving grateful correspondence from former students, Rovee-Collier said.
Kent’s influence extended beyond the University with the publication of his textbook “Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates,” Rovee-Collier said. It remained a standard text in the field for years and was studied by Kent’s grandchildren decades later, she said.
“There were 39 countries in the world that used his book.” Rovee-Collier said.
Kent is survived by his daughter, brother Donald Kent and several grand- and great-grandchildren.
 
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