Jody Anne Gentzler

Jody Anne Abseck was born September 28, 1941, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. Surrounded by her beloved family, she passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. She was 83 years young. Jody was cremated at her request.

Mom never wanted a funeral. She didn’t want people standing around crying and wanted, instead, for people to party. A celebration of life will be held in Paonia in the fall.

Jody was born to Mayme Elsie (Kemp) Abseck and Joseph Frederic Abseck. Jody was born first, and her identical twin, Judy, was born a few minutes later. The new parents were so surprised by twins that new nursery items were needed. Joe drove to Montrose to get a second layette and other items, which were provided free by Montgomery Ward.

Except for a couple of years, Jody lived her entire life in Paonia. She grew up in the home that Joe and Mayme built where they raised Jody and Judy.

Jody married Phillip Campbell. To this union, four children were born. After his death, Jody married Richard Gentzler, the love of her life, and became stepmother “Mom” to Rich, Susan, and Coral. To their union, Peter was born.

Jody and Dick lived a wonderful and fulfilling life, traveling abroad on numerous trips with friends. They entertained friends and family and especially enjoyed “Gourmet” monthly dinners, and an annual Christmas party with fabulous food and a weekly “Friday Afternoon Club” open to anyone who brought an appetizer and a drink to share. Mom made all holidays special occasions and frequently made turkey dinners throughout the year to the dismay of some of her children.

Jody’s beloved Dick died September 24, 2009. She is survived by her children, Rich (Tina) Gentzler, Susan (Tony) Allen, Kimi (Curt) Kelley, Joseph (Ewa) Campbell, Tracy (Bob) Tooker, Coral (Mark) Bachaus, Allyson (Gary) Snider, and Pete (Carrie) Gentzler; grandchildren Robert, Amy, Kara, Joe, Sarah, Adam, Josh, Hana, Lindsey, Jerad, Tyler, Caleb, Alex, and Frankie; 18 great-grandchildren (two more are on the way), and one great-great grandchild.

She is also survived by her beloved sister and best friend, Judy (Laddie) Livingston, and was close to her nephew and nieces, Brett, Leslie, and Nichole. She embraced numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, special friends, extended family, and her beloved calico cat, Elizabeth. To Mom, everyone was extended family, and her influence and love was worldwide.

Mom was an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, friend, cook, artist, dancer, and enthusiastic singer but most of all, Mom was an amazingly resilient, irreverent, loving mother. She will be missed more than words can say, but as Mom always said, “It’ll be fine.”

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Jody’s name to Paonia Care Center, who provided tender loving care in Mom’s last days, Hope West Hospice, or a charity of your choice.