Garry Lee Gentry

Garry Lee Gentry, a devoted family man and compassionate community member, passed away peacefully on March 30, 2026, at South Georgia Medical Center. Born on November 1, 1956, in Columbia, South Carolina, and raised in Irwin County on the family farm he loved. Garry’s life was marked by a deep commitment to helping others and fostering meaningful connections with those around him.

A Celebration of Life with Rev. Ted Smith officiating will be held Thursday, April 2, 2026, 5:00 P.M. at Albritton Funeral Directors. The family will greet friends in the lobby after the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to WAALS Water Shed Coalition, Inc. on line at https://www.mightycause.com/organization/Wwals-Watershed-Coalition

After graduating from Turner County High School in 1974, he attended Georgia Tech where he met his lifelong friend and the Godfather of his daughter, John Chakiris. After two years at Ga. Tech, he started his career with General Motors. Later on in life after his daughter was born, he decided to go back to college. While working full time, he graduated with a BA from The Indiana Institute of Technology. Garry brought his expertise to his long and fruitful career at General Motors. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was widely known for his generous spirit, offering financial guidance and tax preparation services free of charge to those in need. His selfless acts of service profoundly impacted the lives of many, reflecting his unwavering dedication to community support.

Garry’s commitment extended into his personal life through his passionate involvement in helping people achieve sobriety. He provided encouragement and understanding to those on their recovery journeys. His warmth and steadfast support brought hope and strength to countless individuals.

Family was at the heart of Garry’s life. He deeply cherished his wife, Nola Jackson Gentry, and their close-knit family. His daughter, Adrienne, and her husband, Ian, along with his beloved grandchildren, Gentry Ann Smith and Layton Lee Smith, were a constant source of joy and pride. Garry loved attending every event involving his daughter and grandchildren, and nothing delighted him more than camping trips spent in the company of his grandchildren. The bonds he nurtured with his family remain a testament to his enduring love and dedication, which included regularly attending First Methodist Church in Moultrie with his daughter and her family.

Garry enjoyed the simple pleasures of life such as attending concerts with his wife and going on beach trips. He also once owned a go-cart track, a venture that speaks to his adventurous spirit and enthusiasm for life.

He is survived by his wife Nola Jackson Gentry; his daughter Adrienne Gentry Smith and her husband Ian; his sister Cheerie Hudson and her husband Glenn; his sister-in-law Liz Gentry; and his cherished grandchildren Gentry Ann Smith and Layton Lee Smith. Garry was preceded in death by his parents Rudene and Ida Gentry and his brother Tommy Lewis Gentry, Sr.

Garry Lee Gentry leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones and community. His life serves as a reminder of the profound impact one person can make by living with compassion and purpose. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of arrangements