Dave Leroy Gentry

Dave went home to the Lord on January 10. 2023 surrounded by family. He was born on March 29, 1937 in Leonard, Texas to Horton Gentry and Eunice Weatheread Gentry.

Dave grew up in Bonham, Texas. As a young man he joined the Air Force, he was stationed in Tule, Greenland most of his service. It was there that a dear friend, Carl B. Sweikert, talked to Dave about the Lord and changed his life forever. Later, Dave was stationed at Castle Air Force Base in California. It was there he met and married his one true love, Verta Faye Carlisle; this March would have made 65 beautiful years together. Dave became a minister after leaving the Air Force; he has been associated with many BMA churches from California to Texas. Dave had a true calling to preach the word and bring others to Christ. He was even a street preacher for several years.

Dave enjoyed traveling, watching Westerns and reading; Louis L ’Amour was among his favorite authors but he never missed a day reading and studying his bible. He enjoyed working with his hands. Dave was a skilled carpenter, building cabinets, furniture, and toys. Dave was a helping and generous man to all that knew him. Family time was the best time, eating a good home cooked meal and playing board games with his children and grandchildren. All that knew and loved him will dearly miss Dave.

Those waiting to greet him on the other side; his parents, Horton and Eunice; sisters: Mildred, Frances and Hazel.

Those left to cherish his memory; his beloved wife, Verta Gentry; children, John and Barbara Gentry, David Paul Gentry and Barbara Elliott (Sonny Johnson); grandchildren, Jenny Lynn and Scott Sumner, Kayla Marie and Chad Todd, Danny Ryan and Jessica Gentry; great grandchildren, Mandie Joyce Gentry, Sarah Elizabeth Todd; great step grandchildren, Tyler Todd, Trinity Todd, Razonia McCellan, Kenedi Ferrell-Todd; great great grandchild, Jett Moore; host of nieces and nephews; and many friends.

The family would like to thank Hospice of East Texas, the chaplain, the nursing staff, especially Michelle Rackley and Ava Tutor.

A visitation will be at 9:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023 at Arledge Ridge Cemetery in Bonham, Texas.