Franklin Ray Gentry

Franklin "Frank" Ray Gentry

Franklin "Frank" Ray Gentry, 81, of Aquilla, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026.

Frank was born on April 4, 1945, in Bloomfield, Indiana, to Pleasant Eugene "Gene" Gentry and Isabel Selby Gentry. He graduated from Bloomfield High School in 1963 before earning a Bachelor of Science in Education from Indiana University in 1968.

Following college, Frank answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army in 1968. He proudly served as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam from May 1969 through March 1970. His military service reflected the courage, dedication, and quiet strength that characterized his life.

A faithful man, Frank was a member of Richfield Christian Church, where his faith was an important part of his life.

After his military service, Frank built a life centered on family, hard work, and the pursuit of lifelong interests. He had a remarkable talent for carpentry and took great pride in building and finishing the home he shared with his beloved wife, Elaine. He also enjoyed country western dancing and was especially fond of the two-step. His curiosity and love of learning led him into beekeeping, which eventually blossomed into another passion—cultivating his own vineyard and making homemade wine to share with family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elaine; his children, Yvonne (Jason) Kay and Robert "Bob" (Lisa) Gentry; his stepchildren, Danne Raborn (Agi) and Lorri Hohle; 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Pleasant Eugene "Gene" Gentry and Isabel Selby Gentry, and his siblings, Kay Powell and George Gentry.

Frank will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his service to his country, his craftsmanship, and his quiet strength. Whether he was leading a dance across the floor, building something with his hands, tending his vineyard, or enjoying time with those he loved, Frank lived a life of purpose and generosity. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, beginning at 12:00 p.m. at Waco Memorial Funeral Home. A Celebration of Frank's Life will begin at 1:00 p.m. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Waco Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to a veterans' organization or a charity of your choice in Frank's memory.