Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Gentry Obituary
April 18, 1952 - September 2, 2024
Sacramento, California - James (Jim, Jimbo) passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 2, 2024. Jim was a proud Sacramento native, graduating from Hiram Johnson High School in 1970 before embarking on a dedicated 30-year career with Pacific Bell/ATT. He was a man who took immense pride in his family, friendships and community. He was a passionate sports fan, devoted to cheering on the Sacramento Kings and San Francisco 49ers. In addition to his love of sports, Jim enjoyed a wide range of entertainment - from classic westerns, science fiction and musicals to being the perfect companion to watch scary movies with. His favorite places to travel were Washington State and Arizona to visit family, Hawaii and Pacific Grove. He also enjoyed traveling to dog shows to watch his beautiful English Setters compete.
Jim loved his food! Some of his favorites were biscuits and gravy, his daughter Jennifer's tamale pie, and to finish a meal off, a nice big root beer float! He cherished sharing good meals and moments with his loved ones.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Ray Gentry, his mother and stepfather, Doris and Al Becker. He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne DeFonte; his daughter Jennifer Gentry; his son, Chad Gentry (Christie); his stepson, Matthew Connors; and his step-daughter, Amanda Centella (Hector). He also leaves behind his sister, Sandy Herve (Ray).
A Celebration of Jim's life will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Dante Event Center, 2330 Fair Oaks Blvd., Sacramento, CA.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Fosters & Paws Sacramento or to a charity of your choice.
Private interment will take place at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Sacramento.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Gentry
Sponsored by Sacbee.com.
5 Entries
Dennis and Karen Kennedy
October 10, 2024
We met Jim and Suzanne through our mutual friend Sandi McCue. Sharing a love of English Setters, Jim and Suzanne, at Sandi's suggestion, acquired a puppy from us whom they named Willow, and that truly began a strong and lasting friendship. We have laughed and cried over our dogs wins and losses and shared so many wonderful times together. Jim loved life and cherished his friends and family and enjoyed himself to the fullest especially when it included food. We will so much miss his smile and his friendship but will always have him in our thoughts and memories, especially at the dog shows.
Michael Cevola
October 9, 2024
great high school friend. Jim always had that big smile on his face. I always loved hanging out with him and Albert Perrone.
{first}Albert {last}Perrone
September 30, 2024
Chad my name is Al Perrone. Maybe your dad mention me. No matter i am sorry about your dad. I use to watch Ray gpa go riding around with you.
CPT Jack Madden, USA Ret.
September 24, 2024
Fine fellow and a great partner and husband for my little Sister Suzanne. Will always occupy a warm place in my heart. Jack Madden
Theresa Geoffroy
September 24, 2024
I´ve always admired the relationship the two of you shared. You were his world and he was yours. I can´t imagine what you must be feeling right now. All I can do is express my sincere condolences and let you know I love you and I am thinking of you. Theresa Geoffroy.
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in James Gentry's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for James Gentry
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James Gentry's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
