It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Cecil Ray Ghent, Lancaster, SC, on January 4, 2025. A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and devoted servant of God, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service, and unwavering faith.

Born on January 25, 1942, Cecil dedicated his life to his family, his work, and his community. A skilled tool and die machinist, he was known for his precision, ingenuity, and passion for his craft. Retiring from Joslyn Clark Control after 25 years, he then opened and operated his own business, Ghent's Machine Company for more than 40 years. As an innovator and creator, he often found joy in bringing his ideas to life, solving problems with both patience and persistence. His contributions to his field were a testament to his dedication and his love for making things work better.

Beyond his professional achievements Cecil was a pillar of his family. He was a devoted husband to Frances Bradley Ghent for 54 years (predeceased), and later, husband of 7 years to Sandra Blackmon, as well as a loving father to Darrell, Darlene and Denise. He also took pride in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom he enjoyed laughing, learning and playing with.

A man of faith, Cecil served as a Deacon at Bethel Baptist Church, where he was a steadfast servant to his congregation and a source of encouragement to all who knew him. He was also a member of the Gideons International, where he was committed to spreading the word of God and making a difference in the lives of others.

He was known for his genuine care for others, always going out of his way to help those in need. Whether through acts of kindness, his work in church ministries, or his service to the Gideons, Cecil exemplified a life of humility, generosity, and love. Cecil and Sandra spent the last seven years working in bible school, mobile missions, meal delivery, and went on many mission trips with the Samaritan Feet Shoe Ministry.

Cecil was also passionate about music, often filling his home with the sounds of his favorite tunes. Whether he was playing an instrument, singing, or simply enjoying a melody, music was a source of comfort and joy throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Blackmon Ghent; his children, Cecil Darrell Ghent, Darlene Ghent Dabney (Norman) and Denise Ghent Cubbedge (Barry); his grandchildren Dalton Starnes (Katie), Norman Dabney (Tiffany), Brandi Dabney, Lauren Ghent Van Scoyoc (Eric) Bradley Ghent, Croft Cubbedge and Eddie Cubbedge; his  great-grandchildren, Keegan and Kayden Starnes; his sisters Ruth Norris and Linda Sims,  his brother Donald Ghent, and many extended family members, including step children, grandchildren, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Frances Bradley Ghent, his parents, Bessie and Bill Ghent, his brothers Jimmy Ghent and Sonny Ghent, and sisters Dot Brazell and Ted Faulkenbury.

A celebration of Cecil's life will be held on Tuesday, January 7 at Bethel Baptist Church in Lancaster, SC, with visitation starting at 1pm. A service of remembrance will follow at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Bethel Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC.

Cecil will be greatly missed but forever remembered for his boundless love, his creative spirit, and his faithful devotion to God, family, and others. His legacy of service, generosity, and love will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.