Donald William Gentry

Don lived a life of deep family love, devoted public service, and Texas pride from start to finish. Born in Paducah, Texas, Don’s early years carried him through Childress and Vernon before his family put down roots in Austin in 1959 — a city he would go on to serve with distinction for decades.

Don graduated from McCallum High School in 1968 and went on to Sam Houston University before transferring to the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History in 1972. Those years laid the foundation for a career that would place him at the heart of Texas government.

His professional life was one of remarkable service to the great state of Texas. He served in the Texas Senate as Sergeant of Arms, then in the Texas House of Representatives, before going on to serve in the Office of the Governor under the Honorable Dolph Briscoe and Governor William P. Clements. He later joined the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, where he proudly served for 32 years before retiring. In his final chapter of professional life, he brought his expertise and dedication to NEI Global for two and a half years.

But the truest measure of Don’s life was not found in government halls — it was found at home. In October 1982, he met the love of his life, Cindy, and knew right away she was the one. They married in May 1983, and together they built something far greater than any career: a family full of laughter, love, and legacy.

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Cindy; his three daughters, Lesley Rae, Lisa, and Laura; his sons-in-law Jared and Scott; and six grandchildren who were the joy of his heart — Jonas, Kenna, Isabel, Gentry, Wyatt, and Charleigh; Father Mike Jones and sister Susan Bulla and brother in law Bob Bulla; Niece Monica Simpson and nephews Geoff Gentry and Donald Bulla; Cousin Chris Farrington.

He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, service, and an unshakeable love for his family and his state. Don didn’t just live a good life — he built one, brick by brick, and shared every bit of it with the people he loved.

He was two days shy of 76, and he filled every one of them