Walter Lee Gentry

Mr. Walter Gentry, 83, of Lillington passed away Friday, September 05, 2025, at Lillington Health and Rehab Center. Walter was born in Nash County, the son of the late Rev. Walter Francis Gentry and Odelia Perkins Gentry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Patsy Dean Gentry.

Walter was a pillar of quiet strength and steadfast faith, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion to his family and community. He was a devoted member of Antioch Baptist Church, where he sang in the choir and was actively involved in Rotary Club for many years.  Walter's gentle spirit and calm presence touched the hearts of many.

Born to a small community preacher, Walter's upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of humility and compassion. After serving his country in the U.S. Navy as a Interior Communications Electrician, he built a long and fulfilling career with Carolina Telephone/Sprint, before retiring to enjoy his golden years with his beloved wife, Patsy.

Walter and Patsy's life was filled with the simple joys of daily routines, church, and community. His love of music, particularly bass guitars and drums, brought him great joy.  His family will always remember his signature style of khakis, a plaid shirt, and loafers.  It became iconic to those who knew him.

Though he didn't have children of his own, Walter and Patsy poured their love and care into their nieces, nephews, church family, and friends. His gift for capturing family gatherings on video has left a treasured legacy, preserving decades of memories for generations to come.

Walter is survived by Sisters Carol Gentry Wall and husband, Rev. Dr. Arthur Wall, children, Stephanie Kraczkowski and husband, Kevin, daughters, Caramia and Chloe, Aaron Avery son of Stephanie, Sharon and Matthew Farber, daughter, Maggie, Susan and Nathan Steven, sons, Noah and Samson; Frances Gentry Thomas and husband, Baxley Thomas, children, Neill B. Thomas, III, his children, Ava, Tyler and Addison, Walter Thomas and wife Tracy, children, Nolan, Chandler, and Jeremiah, Diana Owen and husband Cole Owen, children, Rayleigh, Reed, Reagan, and Kennedy; nieces, Monica Stewart and daughter Kayleigh Stewart, Magan Love and daughter Kensley Love; nephew, Damon Dean and wife Cristy Dean, their children, Kaden, Sawyer, and Emerson.

Walter will be deeply missed by his relatives, friends, and all who were blessed to know him. His quiet habits, comforting consistency, and kind spirit will be forever remembered.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM–3:45 PM Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Antioch Baptist Church in Mamers. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 PM in the sanctuary with Rev. Todd Moore, Rev. Dr. Arthur Wall, and Rev. Dan Deaton. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

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