Leslie "Les" Allen Gentry

Leslie “Les” Allen Gentry, of Hillsboro, Missouri, was born on November 22, 1962, in St. Louis, Missouri. Surrounded by the love of his family, Les lived a life defined by hard work, deep loyalty, and the simple joys that meant the most to him, time outdoors, good food, and the people he loved.

Les was preceded in death by his sons, James Gentry and Jacob Gentry; his stepdaughter, Angie Brown; and his father, Martin Gentry. He is survived by his partner of 23 years, Sherry Gentry, who stood by his side in all of life’s seasons; his daughter Rachel Gentry (Shawn); his stepchildren Jacob “Big Jake” Crader (Cadie), Grant Crader, and Leah Stephens (Tony); and many cherished grandchildren who brought him tremendous joy. He is also survived by his mother, JoAnn; his brothers Rick and Scott; his sisters Dianne, Mary, and Crystal; and numerous extended family members and friends.

A true outdoorsman, Les found his happiest days on the water or in the woods. He was an avid fisherman and treasured his time at the Big Bass Bash with his Uncle Jerry. He loved hunting in Dixon, Missouri, where longtime friends like Dave Finnigan became part of his extended family. He also grew up with friends Mike Hardin and Tim Bresnahan, bonds that remained meaningful throughout his life. In more recent years, he especially cherished turkey and deer hunting with his stepson Jake, time that meant more to him than any trophy ever could.

Les was also a lifelong entrepreneur. He built his own business, A1-Power Steamers & Fire Control, from the ground up, earning a reputation for his strong work ethic and the personal relationships he developed with his customers. Together, he and Sherry shared another passion, purchasing and rehabbing homes side by side, creating something meaningful with their hands and their shared vision.

A lover of good food, Les was the heart of many family gatherings. He delighted in cooking Thanksgiving dinner and preparing big meals where everyone came together. He grew up listening to Elvis Presley and fulfilled a cherished dream in November 2025 when he visited Graceland, standing in the home of the King himself.

Above all, Les will be remembered for the way he treated people. He never met a stranger and had a gift for instantly creating rapport, something he proudly passed on to his daughter. He taught by example: work hard and take pride in what you do.

Les leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and memories that will continue to guide and comfort those who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Services: Memorial service at the FAMILY CENTER at SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. If desired, contributions may be made to Missouri Department of Conservation. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.