McCree Wilson Gentry, Jr.

McCree Wilson Gentry, Jr., age 78 of State Road, NC, passed away at his home on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, surrounded by loving family members.

JR was born February 8, 1947, in Surry County to McCree Gentry, Sr. and Louise Danner Gentry.

“Smoke” retired in July from Carl Rose and Sons Paving after 38 years of service. His hobbies included spending time with his family and his work, which he never considered “work” a day in his life. He also enjoyed maintaining a meticulous yard as a legacy to his parents. An unusual fact about “JR” is that he lived on the same piece of property his entire life. He was dedicated to taking care of his homestead and his deaf parents and was the third generation to do so.

JR is survived by his wife, Scottie Gentry of Wilkesboro; children, Melissa Isaacs (Jonathan) of Mt. Airy, Jason Gentry (James Wang) of Charlotte, Corey Gentry of Apex, and Madison Gentry (Josh Gowan) of Moravian Falls; his brother, Johnny Gentry (Deborah) of Mt. Airy; grandchildren, Hassie Payne, Dalton Payne (Hannah), Joshua Isaacs, Christian Shaffer, Caroline Gowan, Ryleigh Gowan, Paxton Dwork, and great-grandchild, Dean Payne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, McCree Wilson Gentry (1913 – 1996) and Louise Danner Gentry (1918 – 2006), and his brother, David Michael Gentry (1953 – 1974).

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 6:00 p.m.– 8:30 p.m. at Elkin Funeral Service. A funeral service will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Elkin Funeral Service Chapel and burial will follow at Crestwood Memorial Gardens.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to The North Carolina School for the Deaf, 517 West Fleming Drive, Morganton, NC 28655.

Online condolences may be made to www.elkinfuneralservice.com

Arrangements entrusted to Elkin Funeral Service.