Friday, October 16, 2026 9:15 am

Ms. Mary Etta Gentry, 94, of Shelby, NC passed away on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at her residence. She was born on January 18, 1932, in Boiling

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved son, George Calvin "Jab" Gentry; and her siblings, J. W. Gentry, George "Jock" Walter Gentry, Bobby Gene Gentry, Gentry Ann Miller Eskridge, Constance Miller, Donna Marie "Tootabug" Miller, and Eckles "Brother Boy" Miller, Jr.

Mary's beautiful legacy lives on through her beloved children, Mary "Sue" Degree (Charles) of Shelby, Johnny Gentry (Deborah) of Raleigh, Willard Gentry of Shelby, Phil Gentry (Elaine) of Raleigh, and Tina Estes of Durham; granddaughters, Me'chelle Degree, LaTasha Rudisill, and Morgan Estes; grandson, Miles Calvin Gentry; great-granddaughter, Ja'Nireia Barnes; great-great-granddaughters, Ky'Lah and Jay'Lanni; sister, Marilyn "Tiny" Miller Hopper; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, church family, and dear friends.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, October 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. Burial took place at Sunset Cemetery.