James Bryan Gentry

James (“Jim”) was born on February 23, 1945 to James Calvin Gentry and Ona (Sikes) Gentry in Washington D. C. where both were employed during WW2; his father was in the Army managing provision supply aircraft, and his mother was a War Department secretary in the Pentagon. After graduating from New Smyrna Beach High School in 1963, he studied music at Stetson University, with a focus on trumpet as his principal instrument. He graduated in 1967 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education and thereafter was employed as a band director at Quincy and Clermont High Schools. He changed careers several times, working as a truck driver for Winn Dixie, a Science teacher for Hillsborough County, and a Stock Purchaser and Safety Clerk for Publix Supermarkets.

In 1968 he met Susan McCaskill and they were wed in November of the same year, going on to have three children, Chrissy, Bryan, and David.

James was a true scholar, and learned all that he could about any subject that interested him. He was a life-long student of the Bible. Through his diligent efforts he led his entire family to Christ; all family members, including grandchildren, are believers. He helped to establish the Valrico church of Christ in 1981, which first met in the Bloomingdale Community Center.

After retiring in 2006, James spent his time enjoying his five grandchildren. He furthered his love for the game of chess by teaching chess, and giving away many chess sets. He even wrote a book using chess characters to teach children how to play the game. James was a coach for a Home School chess group and for the Franklin Middle School Chess Club. He also built triangular peg-jumping games, with instructions on how to win. Occasionally, he would go fishing. Jim attended church services as he was able, despite his health challenges. He continued to study God’s word until his very last days.

James was preceded in death by his father James Calvin Gentry, mother Ona Ruth Gentry, and brother Richard Gentry. He is survived by his wife Susan, children Christine “Chrissy” (John), Bryan (Sarah), and David (Caitlin), and five grandchildren, Jonathan, Julianna, Jessica, Katie, and Emily.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.HillsboroMemorial.com for the Gentry family.