John Wallace Gentry

John Wallace Gentry of Spearsville, LA, formally of Ashdown, AR went home to be with his Lord on February 21, 2012. Johnny was born on March 25, 1948 and was 63 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jay W. Gentry and Mary Crews Gentry; one brother, Eddie Gentry; and one sister, Sue Daniel. John grew up in Ashdown, AR where he graduated from high school in 1966, and was always proud that he was chosen to play all-star football representing the Ashdown Panthers.John went on to play football for Quachita Tigers in Arkadelphia, AR. He was an avid sports fan, especially for the Razorbacks.John graduated Quachita in 1970 with a B.A. in Business Administration. Quachita is also where he met his wife of 43 years, Wilma Lechliter Gentry. John retired as CEO of Springwater Catfish Farms. He was also retired from the U.S. Army after achieving the rank of Captain. John and his family have been members of First Baptist Church in Ashdown, where he and his wife, Wilma were married in May of 1968.Together , they have two children, Jay Gentry and his wife Jenny, and Sherry Gentry and her husband Hugh (J.R.) Kidd. He was a loving father and pappaw to his children and his four grandsons of whom he was so proud, Zachary Gentry, Kyle Kidd,Alex Kidd, and John-Tyler Kidd. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Doug and Connie Daniel and Kent Gentry and Ashley McDaniel and many other relatives and friends. He is lovingly remembered by all his family and friends for his quick sense of humor, his loving heart and strong sense of family. He always encouraged his children and grandchildren by insisting they further their education and develop a strong work ethic.He always said they could become whatever they set their minds to achieve. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation will be Saturday February 25, 2012 from 6 to 8 pm at Madden Funeral Home, Ashdown, AR in the Chapel. Graveside Service will be Sunday February 26, 2012 at 2:00 pm at Hicks Cemetery in Ashdown, AR with Rev. Butch Riddle officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Madden Funeral Home, Ashdown, AR. Online registration: maddenfuneralservice.com

John Wallace Gentry

March 25, 1948 - February 21, 2012