Joan Gentry Pendry

Lakeland - (Betty) Joan Gentry Pendry, age 92, was born on August 16, 1933, in Cherry Lane, Alleghany County, North Carolina, and passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, in Lakeland, Florida. Joan dedicated much of her life to her community and her family.

Joan was the bookkeeper for her husband's business. She was a familiar face at local elections, where she served at the polls.

A sports enthusiast, Joan's athletic prowess was evident in her participation in fastpitch women's softball, bowling, and tennis. Her competitive spirit shone brightly, especially in the Polk County Senior Games, where she continued to claim tennis medals into her 80s. Joan's commitment to sports was paralleled by her devotion to Griffin Baptist Church, where she was a member for nearly fifty years. She served in the church nursery, providing care and love to many over the decades.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Charles Cleveland and Cordelia Ann Gentry; all twelve of her siblings; her beloved husband, Leonard Monroe Pendry; and her infant son, Curtis Ray Pendry. She is survived by her sons, Jerry Leonard Pendry and his wife, Claudette, of Daytona Beach, and David Anthony Pendry and his wife, Patricia, of Lakeland. Joan's legacy continues through her three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

In honor of Joan's wishes, there will be no funeral or memorial service. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to make donations to Good Shepherd Hospice or Griffin Baptist Church, where she devoted so many years of service. Joan's life was marked by her enduring commitment to her family, her faith, and her community, leaving a lasting impact that will be cherished by all who knew her.