George Marshall Gentry Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

George Marshall Gentry passed away peacefully on May 27, 2022 at the age of 85. He was born on July 20, 1936 in Pensacola, Florida to Nell (Norred) and Elbert Gentry, who predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his brother, Elbert “Buddy” Gentry. Marshall attended Pensacola Highschool, Pensacola Junior College and Florida State University, where he met his future bride and the love of his life, Mary Evelyn Beasley of Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Marshall remained a loyal FSU football fan, even when we weren’t winning. Saltwater fishing, especially grouper and snapper, was his passion (obsession). During summers he worked out of Pensacola on a deep-sea party boat named The Gulf Tide, as a prized deckhand to earn spending money for college. In his later years, when he was finally unable to fish any longer, it was a very sad day. He taught his family and many others how to fish, and it gave him great joy. Marshall served in active duty with the Florida National Guard and as a reservist for 6 years as a Staff Sergeant for the Chemical Biological and Radiological unit for the entire United States. Working his way up from Chemist, Marshall retired from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services after 39 years as Administrator of the pesticide laboratory. After retirement, he spent time overseeing the building of his beloved beach house at Indian Pass. To him, there was nothing better than riding the beach and watching the waves. A 2 two- time president and dedicated member of the Capital City Lions Club, Marshall held the esteemed title of “Tail Twister.” His lighthearted joking nature and quick wit always garnered a laugh. Some have even said their tails are still twisted! Traveling for his work and also for pleasure, Marshall and Evelyn enjoyed Europe, all 50 states, Mexico, Canada and beyond, instilling the love of travel in their children. Marshall was an excellent cook, and a true foodie. The whole neighborhood knew when he was grilling, and if you wanted to learn his many grilling secrets, he was happy to teach you. It was always funny to hear neighbors yell across the yard and ask him what he was cooking. His famous fish chowder was always requested by those who knew him well. He loved to share his knowledge of any kind with anyone willing to learn. Marshall loved animals, especially the cats who came his way and took up residence. In his last days he enjoyed spending time with dogs that came to visit as well as the pets of his children. Marshall is survived by his wife of 62 years, Evelyn; his son Jeff Gentry (Julie) and daughter Julie Gentry Townsend (Glenn); his three grandchildren, Lauren Gentry, Melissa Gentry and Ryan Crawford (Felicia); and his nephew, Alan Gentry. The family will receive friends from 2:00PM until 4:00PM on Sunday, June 5, 2022 at Bevis Funeral Home, 200 John Knox Road. A private graveside service will be held at Roselawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests donations be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital (www.shrinerschildrens.org ). Next time you catch a big one out on the water, smile and think of Marshall. Kelly Barber of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the Gentry family with their arrangements.

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George Marshall Gentry

July 20, 1936 - May 27, 2022