James Odis Gentry Jr.

James Odis Gentry Jr., born on March 16, 1958, in Garland, Texas, passed away after a courageous eight-year battle with the rare cancer Merkel Cell Carcinoma on August 29, 2025, in Bonham, Texas. This is the same cancer that took the life of Jimmy Buffett. He was a man of resilience, strength, and bravery fighting this illness.

James's early life in Garland was filled with the simple joys and in his youth he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and later spent time serving by joining the United States Navy. His passion for historical knowledge was ignited in his youth, a flame that would burn brightly until his final days. He was a man who found solace in the past, often losing himself in old TV shows that reminded him of simpler times. When he watched Gunsmoke he knew all the guest actors and wanted to make sure everyone else did too. His love for country music was profound, with the songs of Hank Williams resonating deeply, mirroring the highs and lows of his own life's journey. He loved to fish and when he had a rod in his hand you would find James in his happy place.

It was a dark day for James when Tony Stewart retired from racing and a great day when Jimmie Johnson retired. OU and Florida State were his two college favorites and the teasing was relentless when they played Notre Dame and Texas.

In 1989, James faced profound personal loss with the passing of his father and son. This crucible moment brought his life into sharp focus, galvanizing him to embrace sobriety with a fervor that he would maintain for the rest of his days. It was a testament to his character, his ability to rise from adversity, and his commitment to leading a life of purpose and clarity.

James was not just a man of personal resolve; he was a lover of animals, finding joy and companionship in their unconditional affection. His empathy for all living creatures was a quiet, yet powerful aspect of his personality. It was this compassion that often brought a sense of comfort and peace to those around him.

Beyond his personal passions, James had a fervent love for the thrill of competition. He was a dedicated fan of NASCAR, reveling in the roar of the engines and the sheer spectacle of the races. College football Saturdays were a sacred time for him, as he cheered on his favorite teams with an enthusiasm that was infectious.

James's legacy is not defined by his battle with cancer, but rather by how he lived his life with bravery and a positive spirit. He faced each day with determination, never allowing his illness to dim the light of his optimism. His journey was one of dignity and grace, inspiring those around him to appreciate the beauty in each moment, no matter how challenging life may seem. He mustarded up the strength to take one last vacation with his family. Memories that were made during this trip will forever be etched in the hearts of his wife, children and grandchildren.

We will miss this grumpy, gruff, yet ever so loving man who loved his bonus children like they were his own. He became the dad he didn't have to be and because of this his legacy will always live on.

James is preceded in death by his parents, James and Wanda Gentry, son, Tommy Gentry, and bonus daughter, Alexis Davis.

He is survived by, wife, Jamie Gentry, children, Joe Gentry and wife Laini, Jennifer Garcia, Terry Gentry and wife, Erin, bonus children, Danielle Ramage, Jeremy Rogers and wife Lesley, Sean Rogers and wife Megan, grandchildren, Zoe Gentry, Robert Garcia, Rubin Garcia, Jalisa Garcia, Romeo Garcia, bonus grandchildren, Kylie Ramage, Natalie Ramage, Arthur Rogers, Myra Rogers, Sophia Rogers, Josie Rogers, Helen Rogers, Ella Rogers, Luke Rogers, Phillip Rogers, Rose Rogers, Landon Davis, Ollie Rogers, Shug Rogers, great-grandchild, Annalisia Garcia, and a plethora of aunts, cousins, and friends.

The family will have a gathering at Wise Funeral Home, Sunday, August 31, 2025 from 5pm to 7pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to https://merkelcell.org/join-the-fight/ - the lab which worked hard to find new ways to beat this cancer.