Name: Beney Funeral Home
Address: Syosset, NY

MAY God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this sad time PSALMS 29:11

Today I learned of the passing of a man I hadn't seen in over 38 years and it filled me with great sadness. I had to think about why his death hit me so hard, aside from the fact that death is sad, but there had to  be more. This man was someone whom I knew only casually and in a rather formal way, so why, did I share the news of his passing with a tear in my eye? He was the principle of my Elementary School. I remember him as a happy man who always had a smile and a friendly word. When he talked to you, you knew he was truly interested in what you had to say. He never missed a classroom event or project. I had the highest respect and admiration for him. And then I remembered two things that he did that were big to an 8 year old kid. 

I was in 3rd grade when the Apollo moon landings were just ramping up. I was captivated by this. I had made a Saturn V model and ask my teacher if I and a friend could use it to demonstrate how we would land on the Moon. She said yes and told me I should ask the principle if he wanted to see it.  He told me it sounded like fun and came. He sat in a chair way to small for his frame and complimented us on our work. It sounds silly, but this meant the world to me. Several years later he was principle of our middle school. My friend and I had made a weather station and we ask him if we could put it in the courtyard (which was off limits to students). He let us, as long as we recorded our data on a chart by the office where everyone could see the results. Again, it was simple act, but made me feel important.
So in a simple way I realized that this man had left a small part of himself within me, His kindness and respect he show me (and all his students) however small help shape my character. The most important lesson an educator can give. 

Rest in Peace Dr. James Gentilcore

John and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Family events prevent us from visiting with you today but know that we are thinking of you. 
Marcella and Vincent Viscosi

Thank you for sharing Dr. Gentilcore with all the teachers and children whose lives he touched. He was/is an inspiration to me when I was a new teacher and I will always be grateful for all his kindness and caring.

Kevin and family,
Deepest sympathies to you and your family.  God bless you.

Dave Sine (Langhorne,Pa.)

Kevin, I wish to express my sympathy to you and your entire family for the loss of your father. Our faith gives us strength as we pray for your father's peaceful transition to afterlife.  I'm praying especially for your mother as she grieves the loss of a life-time partner and friend.  I'll be thinking of you during this difficult and sad time.  God Bless.

Kevin and Family,
My deepest sympathies for the loss of your father.  My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.

Our thoughts to your family John over this somber period of time.

OBITUARY

James M Gentilcore

February 1, 1929 – November 8, 2016

Beney Funeral Home

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