Catherine Gentle

Catherine Gentle, a beloved soul who never met a stranger, passed away peacefully in her hometown of Iuka, Mississippi, on February 8, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 25, 1938, she embraced life with a warm heart that touched the many lives she encountered.

Catherine's love for music was a defining part of her existence. A gifted pianist, she not only played in several gospel groups but also lit up church gatherings, sharing her talent and passion. Her joy was palpable when seated at the piano, and her spirit resonated through every note she played. She found immense happiness in caring for her beloved cat, Calico, who was her faithful companion.

As a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Catherine took immense pride in her family. Her son, Felix DeWayne Gentle, and his partner, Rodney Carpenter, along with her daughter, Wanda Durham, and her husband, David, were sources of great joy in her life. Catherine cherished the moments spent with her granddaughters, Kayla Upton, and her spouse, Shane, and Leah Green, and her spouse, Jake, as well as her grandsons, Josh and Joseph Gillis. The love she had for her great-grandchildren—Kaylon, Logan, MaKella, Autumn, Layla, and Savannah—brought her immeasurable happiness and fulfillment, embodying her greatest accomplishments in life.

Catherine's journey, however, was marked by the loss of loved ones. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Joyce Lee Gentle, and her daughter, Shelia Gillis and son-in-law, Charles Gillis, whose memories remained a cherished part of her heart. She also mourned the passing of her parents, Pete and Emma Wadkins, and her siblings: Woodrow, Clinton, Milford, Hershel, Donald, Talford, and Larry Wadkins, as well as Celeste Tucker, Beatrice Harrell, Lena Mae Magarci, Faye Martin, and Nona Jean Rich.

Catherine's legacy of kindness and warmth will live on through her family and friends, who will remember her laughter and passion for life. Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS is entrusted with the arrangements. A visitation will be held at Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 1:00 PM, also at Cutshall Funeral Home, officiated by Bro. Bobby Ivey. Catherine will find her final resting place at Tishomingo Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dale Williams, Dwight Wadkins, Randy Thompson, Shane Upton, Logan Upton, and Rodney Carpenter. 

As we gather to celebrate the life of Catherine Gentle, we honor a remarkable woman who brought joy to all she encountered and showed us the beauty of connection and love. An online guestbook may be accessed at www.cutshallfuneralhome.com.