Dr. Robert Kent Curtis, 86, of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 10th, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Francis Curtis. He leaves behind three children, ten grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, and his loyal dog Bennie, who was rarely far from his side.

Kent was known throughout his life for being kind, steady, gentle, and deeply humble. He was heroic in the way he consistently showed up for anyone who needed him, and he made everyone he met feel seen and cared for.

A graduate of Newport High School (’57) and Centre College (’61), Kent earned his master’s from Xavier University in 1966 and EdD from the University of Cincinnati in 1976. In high school he was voted Most Likely to Succeed, and he truly lived up to it. He was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity and served in the Army Reserve.

Kent found his true calling in higher education. A long-time and respected professor at Northern Kentucky University, he was instrumental in building the Department of Organizational Leadership. Over the years, he also served as an early administrative leader, contributing to the growth of NKU during its formative decades. He cared for his students with a rare and genuine devotion. He believed that education should be accessible to everyone, no matter their age or background, and he worked his entire career to make that a reality.

He was a renowned professor of leadership and a champion of adult learners, helping to build his department from the ground up. He was a pioneer in continuing and online education, helping build programs that opened doors for thousands of people who might never otherwise have had the chance to finish a degree. Kent believed in people before they believed in themselves, and so many of his students carried his encouragement into new careers and fuller lives.

Kent co-authored many books in his field, which are still used in classrooms and workplaces around the world. Teaching and writing gave him purpose, and he worked well into his eighties because he loved the job and the people.

Outside of his professional life, Kent found joy in simple routines. For decades he took his dogs to the park every single night. First Max and Scarlett, then Sunny, all golden retrievers, and finally Bennie. Highland Dog Park in the evenings and walks in Tower Park during the day became his community and his comfort.

Kent cared deeply for his family and for his students. He was patient and kind. He looked for good in everyone and believed wholeheartedly in their potential. His quiet steadiness, dependability, and compassion touched countless lives, and the impact he made will continue to be felt for many years to come. Kent will be missed dearly by all and remembered with love always.

The memorial service for Dr. Robert Kent Curtis will be held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ft. Thomas, KY. The service will take place on Saturday, December 27th at 10 AM.

Memorial Scholarship
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to fund a scholarship for a graduating senior of Newport Independent Schools. Checks may be made payable to:
NHS Alumni Care of Jorine Combs
3648 Tamber Ridge Drive
Covington, KY 41015