With deep love and sadness, we announce the passing of Connie Denise Ford Zent, who passed away on July 24, 2026, at the age of 60.
Connie will be remembered for the love she shared with everyone whose life she touched. She had a remarkable way of making those around her feel welcome, supported, and cherished. Whether through quiet acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply being present, she brought comfort to others and created lasting memories that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Born on May 23, 1966, in Texas, Connie lived a life grounded in compassion, witty humor, creativity, and generosity. She found great joy in spending time with family, celebrating life’s milestones, and creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Whether she was sewing beautiful quilts for loved ones, decorating for a party that would never be forgotten, or finding a small way to make someone smile, her creativity touched countless lives. Connie embraced life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. From Jeeps and motorcycles to gardening and quilting, she approached every new passion with excitement and seemed to excel at everything she set her mind to.
As a bus driver for Vidor Independent School District, Connie did far more than drive a route. She greeted each child with kindness, offered encouragement when it was needed, and became a trusted presence in the lives of many families. Her patience, compassion, and dedication left a lasting impression on the students she transported and the community she proudly served.
Connie is lovingly survived by her husband, Michael Keith Zent; her daughters, Jennifer Nicole Zent and Chelsea Mae Zent Glover; her grandchildren, Charles Michael Dowdle, Kaylie Marie Dowdle, Benjamin Thomas Glover, and Evelyn Rose Glover; and her brothers, Clifford Ford Jr., Curtis Ford, and Carl Ford.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford R. Ford Sr. and Judy P. Jackson Ford.
To know Connie was to know laughter, creativity, and unconditional kindness. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making everyone feel like family. Her warm smile, generous heart, and unwavering love for those around her will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the gift of Connie’s life and the countless ways she enriched the lives of others. Her love, wisdom, laughter, and generous spirit will remain with her family and friends forever.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday August 1, 2026, at 10: 00 AM at Memorial Funeral Home of Vidor with interment to follow at The Cemetery in Mauriceville, TX. There will be a visitation on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home.
Forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered.
Social Media